HomeMy WebLinkAbout2014 Annual Report and Town Meeting Journal
TF
TF
OWN OF RAMINGHAM
OWN OF RAMINGHAM
M
M
ASSACHUSETTS
ASSACHUSETTS
Annual Report
January 1, 2014 - December 31, 2014
In the year 1900, the Framingham Town Seal was redesigned
the tion and
transportation. The Framingham State Normal School, a free public school and the first of
its kind in America, is represented by the structure at the top of the design. Governor
Danforth, the founder of Framingham and owner of much of its land, is acknowledged by
in the center. The wheel with spokes
drawn as tracks radiating in six different directions represents the steam and electric railroads
ortation hub.
prominent role Framingham played in the manufacture of hats and bonnets in the 1800s.
TC
C
ABLE OF ONTENTS
ABLE OF ONTENTS
OC IV
RGANIZATIONAL HART
EO&A V
LECTED FFICIALS PPOINTMENTS
GG
ENERAL OVERNMENT
BS 1
OARD OF ELECTMEN
TM 3
OWN ANAGER
TC 5
OWN LERK
ER 7
LECTION ESULTS
TC 23
OWN OUNSEL
HR 38
UMAN ESOURCES
VBS
ETERANS ENEFITS AND ERVICES
TS 40
ECHNOLOGY ERVICES
FM 44
ACILITIES ANAGEMENT
CBP 44
APITAL UILDING ROJECTS
MS 45
EDIA ERVICES
L 46
ICENSING
F
INANCE
CFO 47
HIEF INANCIAL FFICER
TA 48
OWN CCOUNTANT
T/C 63
REASUREROLLECTOR
BA 89
OARD OF SSESSORS
PD 110
URCHASING EPARTMENT
RS 110
ETIREMENT YSTEM
PS&H
UBLIC AFETY EALTH
PD 111
OLICE EPARTMENT
AP 114
UXILIARY OLICE
AC 115
NIMAL ONTROL
FD 117
IRE EPARTMENT
BH 124
OARD OF EALTH
IS 128
NSPECTIONAL ERVICES
DW&M 131
EPARTMENT OF EIGHTS EASURES
PW
UBLIC ORKS
E&T 132
NGINEERING RANSPORTATION
HM 134
IGHWAY ANAGEMENT
SWM 137
OLID ASTE ANAGEMENT
W&WM 139
ATER ASTEWATER ANAGEMENT
CC 141
ONSERVATION OMMISSION
F,F,&CM 142
LEET ACILITIES OMMUNICATIONS ANAGEMENT
A&F 144
DMINISTRATION INANCE
PED
LANNING AND CONOMIC EVELOPMENT
PB 149
LANNING OARD
C&EDD
OMMUNITY CONOMIC EVELOPMENT EPARTMENT
ED 151
CONOMIC EVELOPMENT
ZBA 158
ONING OARD OF PPEALS
II
C 158
OMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AND HOME PROGRAMS
MWRTA 160
ETROEST EGIONAL RANSIT UTHORITY
FHA 161
RAMINGHAM OUSING UTHORITY
RCA
ECREATION AND ULTURAL FFAIRS
PRC 163
ARKS AND ECREATION OMMISSION
R 164
ECREATION
PM 165
ARKS AINTENANCE
CC 166
EMETERY OMMISSION
LA 167
ORING RENA
CA/CC 168
OUNCIL ON GINGALLAHAN ENTER
EL
DUCATION AND IBRARIES
FPS 170
RAMINGHAM UBLIC CHOOLS
KTS 183
EEFE ECHNICAL CHOOL
FPL 190
RAMINGHAM UBLIC IBRARY
GC
ENERAL OMMITTEES
CAC 194
ABLE DVISORY OMMITTEE
CBC 194
APITAL UDGET OMMITTEE
CC 194
ULTURAL OUNCIL
CCAC 195
USHING HAPEL DVISORY OMMITTEE
DC 195
ISABILITY OMMISSION
EGCC 195
DGELL ROVE EMETERY OMMISSION
FC 196
INANCE OMMITTEE
GSC 197
OVERNMENT TUDY OMMITTEE
HDC 197
ISTORIC ISTRICT OMMISSION
HC 198
ISTORICAL OMMISSION
HRC 198
UMAN ELATIONS OMMISSION
RPC 199
EAL ROPERTY OMMITTEE
TAC 199
ECHNOLOGY DVISORY OMMITTEE
TM
OWN EETING
TM 200
OWN ODERATOR
PB 202
ERSONNEL OARD
SC
TANDING OMMITTEES
SCCS 202
TANDING OMMITTEE ON OMMUNITY ERVICES
SCE 203
TANDING OMMITTEE ON DUCATION
SCPZ 203
TANDING OMMITTEE ON LANNING AND ONING
SCPS 204
TANDING OMMITTEE ON UBLIC AFETY
SCPW 204
TANDING OMMITTEE ON UBLIC ORKS
SCR 204
TANDING OMMITTEE ON ULES
SCWM 205
TANDING OMMITTEE ON AYS AND EANS
TMJ
OWN EETING OURNAL
TMA 208
OWN EETING TTENDANCE
A29,2014ATM 217
PRIL NNUAL OWN EETING
O14,2014STM 267
CTOBER PECIAL OWN EETING
III
Capital
Projects
IV
ETO
ETO
LECTED OWN FFICIALS
LECTED OWN FFICIALS
Town Clerk Regional Vocational School
Committee
Valerie Mulvey 2017
A. J. Mulvey 2017
Interim Moderator
Michael M. Rossi 2017
James Cameau 2015
Teri S. Banerjee 2015
John H. Evans, III 2015
Nelson H. Goldin 2015
Board of Selectmen
Larry Cooper 2016
Cheryl Tully Stoll 2017
Linda B. Fobes 2016
Laurie Lee 2017
John M. Kahn 2016
Jason A. Smith 2015
Charles J. Sisitsky 2016
Planning Board
Michael J. Bower 2016
Christine A. Long 2017
School Committee
Thomas F. Mahoney 2015
Stephanie A. Mercandetti 2015
Michelle Brosnahan 2017
Lewis Colton 2016
James H. Stockless 2017
Victor A. Ortiz 2016
Donald C. Taggart, III 2017
Beverly K. Hugo 2015
Housing Authority
Andrew Limeri 2015
Heather A. Connolly 2016 Janice M. Rogers 2019
Eric K. Silverman 2016 Robert L. Merusi 2016
Stephen P. Starr 2017
Library Trustees
Phyllis A. May 2018
Arthur M. Finstein 2017
Edgell Grove Cemetery Trustees
Samuel L. Klaidman 2017
Jo-Anne Thompson 2017 Susan Silva 2018
Elizabeth Roy 2017 John J. Silva 20 2019
Maria E.L. Barry 2015 Kathleen Griffith 2015
Eric Doherty 2015 Stanton T. Fitts 2016
Janet L. Harrington 2015 Barbara W. Ford 2017
Nancy Coville Wallace 2015
State Legislators
Robert M. Dodd 2016
Elizabeth F. Fideler, Chair 2016
Senator Karen Spilka (D)
Chris Walsh 2016
Representative Tom Sannicandro (D)
Ruth S. Winett 2016
Representative Chris Walsh (D)
Representative Carmine Gentile (D)
V
SMA
SMA
ENIOR ANAGERIAL PPOINTMENTS
ENIOR ANAGERIAL PPOINTMENTS
Town Manager Chief Engineer
Robert J. Halpin William Sedewitz
Assistant Town Manager Parks & Recreation Director
Jennifer L. Thompson James Duane
Police Chief Public Health Director
Kenneth M. Ferguson Roberto Santamaria, Interim Director
Fire Chief Veterans Benefits & Services Director
Gary Daugherty Peter Harvell
Town Counsel Conservation Administrator
Christopher J. Petrini Robert D. McArthur
Chief Financial Officer Elder Services/Callahan Senior Center
Director
Mary Ellen Kelley
Technology Services Director
Public Works Director
Carly Premo Melo
Peter Sellers
Town Accountant
Town-Owned Buildings Foreman
Richard G. Howarth, Jr.
James J. Paolini
Treasurer/Tax Collector
Human Services Policy & Program
Carolyn R. Lyons
Coordinator
Chief Assessor
Vacant
William G. Naser
School Superintendent
Human Resources Director
Dr. Stacy Scott
Dolores Hamilton
Planning Board Administrator
Chief Procurement Officer
Amanda L. Loomis
Jennifer Pratt
Library Director
Building Commissioner/Inspectional
Mark Contois
Services Director
Liaison to the State Ethics Commission
Michael A. Tusino
Christopher Petrini, Esquire
Community & Economic Development
Director
Arthur P. Robert
VI
BSA
BSA
OARD OF ELECTMEN PPOINTMENTS
OARD OF ELECTMEN PPOINTMENTS
Agricultural Advisory Commission Conservation Commission
Nicola Cataldo 2017 Nicola Cataldo 2017
Peter E. Whiting 2017 Sam Bade 2017
Matthew Hanson (Alternate) 2015 William G. Merriam, Vice Chair 2015
Thomas Hanson, Chair 2015 Robert Bois 2015
Jacqueline Menninno (Alternate) 2015 Pam Helinek, Chair 2016
Dudley Stephan 2016 Jennifer Forman Orth 2016
George A. Marold 2016
Constables
Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory
R. Scott Gonfrade 2015
Committee
Gerald Hill 2015
William Hanson, Chair Indefinite Paul L.M. Kelley 2015
Edward Kross Indefinite Sean McCarthy 2015
Joseph Repole Indefinite Paul A. Nardizzi 2015
Thomas Branham 2014 Amaury Abreu 2016
Ben Gustafson 2017 Marjorie Goldin 2016
Bruce Ingle 2016 Nelson Goldin 2016
Stacey Lee 2016 Rachel A. Minutolo 2016
Henry Ohrenberger 2016
Board of Health
William Pickett, Jr. 2016
Barry Sims 2016
David W. Moore 2017
Elizabeth A. Fuller 2017
Nelson H. Goldin 2015
Michael R. Hugo, Chair 2016
Cultural Council
Cable Advisory Committee
Cindy Camuso (At-Large) 2015
Mary-Ann Stadtler-Chester (At-Large) 2015
Annabel Z. Dodd, Chair 2017
P. Nandi Varris (At-Large) 2015
William Peter Barnes 2017
Joel Winett (At-Large) 2015
Morton J. Shuman 2017
Rita E. Collins 2015
Ron J. Rego 2015
Judith Levine 2015
Norma Shulman 2016
Mary Jane Dotson 2017
Cemetery Commission Norma Kent 2017
Diane M. Hartung, Chair 2016
Kathleen F. Hauck 2017
Kevin Salvi 2016
Cushing Chapel Board of Trustees
Barry Bograd, Chair 2016
Edward T. Levay, Jr., Chair 2015
Community Development Committee
Nicholas Paganella 2015
Anne Arvedon 2017 Elizabeth Sleczkowski 2015
Beverly C. Good, Chair 2017 James W. Egan 2014
Pablo Maia 2017 Stanton T. Fitts 2014
Edgar Roth 2017 Larry Herson 2014
Stephen Bransfield 2017
VII
Disability Commission Fence Viewer
James Egan 2014 Michael Tusino 2015
Elise A. Marcil 2017
High School Building Committee
Susane Santone 2017
Craig Colman 2015
George L. Drummey, Chair Indefinite
Jennifer L. Davis 2015
Philip A. Dinsky Indefinite
Dennis Moran 2015
Laurie Jean Carroll Indefinite
Karen Foran Dempsey, Chair 2016
Diane Montgomery Indefinite
Kathleen T. McCarthy 2016
Susan Bernstein Indefinite
Rose Quinn 2016
John Silva Indefinite
Historic District Commission
Economic Development & Industrial
Henry Field 2017
Corporation
Ted Grenham (Alternate) 2017
Richard J. Donovan 2017
Helen Lemoine 2017
Maureen E. Dunne, Chair 2017
Stephen Greeley (District Resident) 2017
Meyer Levy 2017
Susan Bernstein (Realtor) 2015
Christopher DiBenedetto 2015
Amy D. Finstein (Alternate FHC) 2015
Michael Gatlin, Chair 2015
Calvin Smith 2015
Scott W. Wadland 2015
Gerald Couto, Chair 2016
Mark Galante 2016
Julie A. Ferrari 2016
James Kubat (Alternate) 2016
Elderly & Disabled Tax Fund
Ronald M. Lamphere (Alternate) 2016
Committee
Historical Commission
William G. Naser, Chief Assessor
Carolyn , Treasurer/Collector
Lewis Colten 2017
Elizabeth Matterazzo Indefinite
Susan Martone 2017
Howard Rouse Indefinite
Jane B. Whiting 2017
Eric C. Finn Indefinite
Gerald Couto 2015
Thomas Joseph Schuetz 2015
Emergency Management Director
Paul F. Silva 2016
Steven Trask Indefinite Frederic Wallace, Chair 2016
Emergency Management Asst. Human Relations Commission
Director
Robert Anspach, Chair 2017
John C. Magri Indefinite Timothy Lee 2017
Richard S. Winer 2014
Fair Housing Committee
Howard M. Lewis 2015
John Schaefer 2015
Robert Anspach 2017
(Ex-officio, HR Comm.)
Barry J. Rubenstein 2015
Daphne Collins
(Ex-officio, CED Dept.)
Arlene Bernstein 2016
Rev. Faith Tolson-Pierce 2009
Ozzy Diagne 2011
Metro Area Planning Council
Douglas Rich 2013
Lisa Rohmer 2014 Cheryl Tully Stoll 2014
Susan DiClemente Aaron 2015
MetroWest Regional Transit Authority
Edgar Roth 2016
Cynthia M. Higgins 2016
Jason Smith 2014
VIII
Park and Recreation Commission Zoning Board of Appeals
David Gudejko 2017 Susan S. Craighead 2017
Phillip Reitz 2017 Philip R. Ottaviani, Chair 2015
Barry Bograd 2015 Stephen Meltzer 2016
Joan Klan Rastani, Chair 2015 Edward V. Cosgrove (Associate) 2017
Kathleen F. Hauck 2016 Robert Snider (Associate) 2017
Kevin J. Gatlin (Associate) 2017
Town Historian
Zoning Board of Appeals Sign Appeals
Frederic Wallace Indefinite
Board
Tree Warden
Edward V. Cosgrove 2017
Kevin J. Gatlin 2017
Charles E. Reneau 2016
Robert Snider 2017
Veterans Council
Local Water Resource Management
Dawn Ross 2015
Official
Richard A. Constant 2016
Peter A. Sellers Indefinite
Jeffrey M. Cox 2016
Nicholas Paganella 2016
Eric C. Finn 2017
Daniel Schuldman 2015
Peter Harvell, VSO Ex-officio
IX
AM
AM
PPOINTMENTS BY THE ODERATOR
PPOINTMENTS BY THE ODERATOR
As
Capital Budget Committee Real Property Committee
Jeanne Bullock, Chair 2017 Robert Bolles 2017
Elizabeth Funk (Fin Com Rep) 2015 Mark McClennan 2017
Kevin P. Crotty, Vice Chair 2015 Betty Muto 2017
Edward J. Kross 2015 Kathy Vassar 2017
Richard J. Weader, II 2016 Harold J. Geller 2015
Michael Cannon 2016 Norman Snow, Vice Chair 2015
Dan Rao 2017 Shelley Strowman 2015
Andrea Carr-Evans 2016
Finance Committee
Edward T. Levay, Jr. 2016
Martin Ned Price, Chair 2016
Kurt Steinberg, Vice Chair 2015
Christine Long (Planning Board
Ambar Sarkar 2017
Representative) 2017
Scott D. Estes 2015
Michael Bower (Selectmen
Nancy Wilson 2015
Representative) 2017
Mahmood Akhtar 2016
David Miles (School Committee
Leonard Finkel 2016
Representative) 2017
Elizabeth Funk 2016
Nancy Wilson (Fin Com Representative) 2017
Government Study Committee Joan Rastani (Park Commission
Representative) 2017
Karl Rookey, Chair 2017
Nicola Cataldo () 2017
ConCom Representative
Wolf Haberman 2015
James Tierney 2015
Technology Advisory Committee
Sue Bernstein 2016
Phil Reiman 2014
Ed Mann 2016
Vale Sundravel 2017
Betty Muto 2016
Walter Adamski 2015
Personnel Board Edward Kane 2015
Steven Feldman 2016
Stephen Richards, Chair 2014
Adam C. Levensohn, Chair 2016
Stephen Becker 2016
Stanley Lichwala 2016
nnor 2017
Roger Ahlfeld 2015
X
MA
MA
ISCELLANEOUS PPOINTMENTS
ISCELLANEOUS PPOINTMENTS
Board of Assessors
Registrar of Voters
William G. Naser (Chief Assessor) 2016
Eng Cho 2015
Arthur Holmes 2017
Linda A. Fields 2016
Kathy Peirce 2017
Bruce C. Wester 2016
Appointed by the Chief Financial Officer with approval of
All of the above Appointed by Selectmen
the Town Manager
Valerie Mulvey 2017
Appointed by default as Town Clerk
Council on Aging
Clinton J. Knight, Chair 2017 Loring Arena Committee
Patricia Paganella 2017
Richard Callahan 2015
James V. Divver 2017
John Hart 2015
John Kahn 2017
Jack Jagher 2015
Beth Donnelly 2016
Robert Lewis 2015
Betty Muto 2016
Joan Klan Rastani 2015
Rachel Stewart 2016
Joseph Tersoni 2015
Fred Wallace 2016
Appointed by Town Manager
Clyde Dottin 2015
Lynn F. Power 2015
Retirement Board
Lawrence J. Griffin 2017
Richard Howarth, Jr., Chair & Ex-officio
Five appointed by the Board of Selectmen, six by
Mary Ellen Kelley 2017
the Council on Aging
Jon Fonseca 2017
Wayne MacDonald 2015
Housing Authority
Peter Rovinelli, Elected 2016
Mark R. Galante 2012
Two members appointed by Selectmen, two elected
Appointed by the MA Department of Housing
by members, one appointed by Retirement Board
& Community Development
XI
Town of Framingham
2014 Annual Town Report
GENERAL GOVERNMENT
BS| TM| TC| TC| HR
OARD OF ELECTMEN OWN ANAGER OWN LERK OWN OUNSEL UMAN ESOURCES
TS| FM| CBP
ECHNOLOGY ERVICES ACILITIES ANAGEMENT APITAL UILDING ROJECTS
MS| L
EDIA ERVICES ICENSING
BS
OARD OF ELECTMEN
Memorial Building, Room 121 | 508-532-5400 | selectmen@framinghamma.gov
From left to right: Cheryl Tully Stoll, Jason A. Smith, Laurie Lee, Michael J. Bower, and Charles J. Sisitsky
Throughout 2014, the Board of Selectmen For the third year in a row, the Board
focused on Financial Stability, Economic maintained its commitment to give relief to
Development, Quality of Life Issues, and the taxpayers by holding the tax levy increase
e. to 1.5%, rather than the maximum allowed by
General Government1
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
law of 2.5%. This was possible, in part, by underway during the year and will continue
tight budgeting, a healthy free cash balance throughout 2015. The project will improve
traffic flow and pedestrian accessibility. It will
health insurance to the State Group Insurance also provide new street lights and signal lights
Commission (GIC). We expect these financial and greatly beautify the downtown area. The
benefits to continue into the next few years Board has taken steps to continue to promote
and enable us to maintain our tax relief policy. Framingham and encourage development.
During the ye
The Town experienced significant amounts of
program was reinvigorated with a successful
economic development throughout the year.
roll out and presentation hosted by Genzyme
The owner of the substantially vacant Mt.
and attended by a large crowd of local
Waite Plaza on Franklin Street received final
businessmen and developers. We also co-
approval to redevelop the site with a
combination of new and remodeled buildings.
Fenway Park with the Tri-County United
Danforth Green, the long-awaited residential
Way. Nearly two hundred participants
development in north-east Framingham
finally broke ground for both the rental units
and the condominium units. This activity
triggered the payment of over one million The first annual MetroFest was held at
dollars to the town as well as the transfer of Bowditch Field in September. It is an Arts,
89 acres of land to the town for permanent Music and Food Truck festival that will
open space. hopefully continue each year in the fall. It
drew large crowds and provided much fun for
The Board successfully negotiated a Tax
Framingham families. Another first was the
Increment Financing (TIF) agreement with
installation of traffic calming measures on
Edmands Road. This project involved the
approved by Town Meeting in 2015, will
installation of traffic speed
enable the company to expand into new space
table to slow traffic and improve safety. The
and enlarge its work force.
adoption of a detailed traffic calming policy
The vacant Breyers Ice Cream plant on Old
for the town.
Connecticut Path was purchased for
redevelopment and at the end of the year,
Additional traffic calming improvements are
demolition of the old plant had begun with
presently in the design phase for Winch Street
construction of a new facility scheduled to
and Beaver Streets. The Board also adopted a
begin in 2015.
complete streets policy for the town which
encourages designers to consider providing
As the year came to a close, a new restaurant
for all types of roadway users including motor
in the old downtown train station, the Deluxe
vehicles, bicyclists and pedestrians. Such a
Depot Diner, was completing substantial
program is encouraged by the state which
renovations and was planning its grand
ultimately rewards participating communities
opening. This restaurant will join a number of
with grants.
other new restaurants in the downtown area.
Along with the new, we also celebrated the
The state-funded bridge replacement and/or
improvement program was very active in
th
Street for reaching its 75 anniversary. The
town during the year. The improvements on
state-funded downtown roadway and
the Winter Street Bridge over the Stearns
streetscape improvement project got
reservoir were completed as was the Wickford
General Government2
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
Road Bridge reconstruction. Work continues efficient equipment. Part of this program
on the Winter Street Bridge over the railroad involves the replacement of all of the street
tracks at Waverly Street and the Route Nine lights in town with new, energy efficient LED
Bridge over the Foss reservoir. Both projects lights.
are expected to be completed in 2015.The
Calendar year 2014 was another busy year
long-awaited roadway improvements in
attesting to the fact that Framingham is a large
and active community that provides a high
Streets were substantially completed by the
level of services to our residents and
end of the year. It is anticipated that this
businesses. The members of the Board of
work, paid for by mitigation funds, will
Selectmen thank all of the Town employees
facilitate the redevelopment of the old State
and volunteers for their consistent and
Lumber property. Also in 2014, the Board
unwavering dedication to making
finalized approval of an energy services
Framingham a great place to live, work and
contract (ESCO) which is a multi-year
recreate.
program to make energy-related
improvements to municipal buildings at no
Respectfully submitted,
cost to the taxpayers. Per the terms of the
Charles J. Sisitsky, Chairman
contract, all improvements will be paid for
with the savings derived from new, energy
TM
OWN ANAGER
Memorial Building, Room 121 | 508-532-5400 | Town.manager@framinghamma.gov
I am pleased to present my annual report for the Board of Selectmen late in 2013, took
calendar year 2014. Once again I am able to effect as of July 1, 2014 and is anticipated to
report another year of substantial progress create a projected net savings in the cost of
towards achieving many important
community goals and objectives and health insurance of approximately $17 Million
confronting some of the significant challenges dollars over the next three (3) fiscal years.
that our community faces in the years ahead. The task of re-enrolling nearly seven thousand
employees, retirees, and their dependents fell
the increased attention among members of heavily on our Human Resources Department
but in the end the transition was superbly
team and their respective departments on managed and we enjoying the benefits of our
shared vision, teamwork and quality service first year of net savings as we enter 2015.
leave us positioned to make great strides in
the years ahead. Enabled largely by the projected savings from
this move to the MA GIC, the Town Manager
On the financial front, the Town made the and Chief Financial Officer worked closely
decision to move the group health insurance with the Board of Selectmen and with other
program for all municipal and school key elected officials and department heads the
department employees into the statewide establish a first-ever multi-year approach to
establishing budget goals and identifying
Insurance Commission (MA GIC) health spending limits and priorities to achieve them.
insurance program. This move, authorized by The overriding goal of this three-year budget
General Government3
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
statement, however, is to share a substantial
Given the urgent need to build a new
portion of the projected net savings realized
school by 2017, we successfully made
through the move to the MA GIC directly
the first installment of $2 Million in a
with Framingham property taxpayers in each
new Capital Reserve Fund with a goal
of FY 2015 through 2017. Building on this
of having $4 Million in this fund by
desire we established the following ambitious
FY 2017. This amount represents a
budget and financial goals for the three-year
down payment of 20% of the net
period:
costs of a new school after a hoped-
for Mass. School Building Authority
Limit the increase in the localconstruction grant. This will limit the
property tax levy to not more thanfuture tax impacts of the new school.
1.25% plus growth from new
development versus the normalWe continue to make great strides in
increase of 2.5% authorized underimproving the business climate in
state law. We achieved this goal inFramingham. In June 2014 the Town re-
FY 2015 and are preparing for the FYlaunched the brand
2016 budget with the limit in mind.with a high profile real estate and business
event hosted at Genzyme/Sanofi at their
Manage the Tax Classification shift
Tech Park campus here in Framingham. The
such that we maintain a 60%
event, targeted at real estate development,
residential share and a 40%
leasing agents, and site selection professionals,
commercial share of the actual tax
featured testimonials by Genzyme, Heartware,
levy and to consciously move off the
Normandy Realty Partners and MediaBoss as
historical practice of shifting to the
to their experiences with town government
absolute maximum amount allowed
and noting great improvements in the permit
by law (175%). This policy creates an
review process, customer service and
important tool to prevent the type of
timeliness of decisions. The event succeeded
massive unanticipated residential tax
in reintroducing Framingham as not only a
increase, such as we saw in FY 2012,
world class business location but one with a
when suddenly commercial values
town government that understands business
plummeted due to the Great
needs and works to address them.
Recession. We were successful in
2014 in maintaining a 60-40% split
The Town also received final approval by the
and moving the shift from residential
state government on three so-called Priority
to commercial from 175% to 171%.
Development Sites in which, in exchange for
Continue to meet our highest
state support for marketing and business
spending priorities while living with a
development, we commit to an expedited
1.25% levy increase. In the Fiscal
permitting process to assure prompt decisions
Year 2015 budget we achieved this
on business applications. The state
while also increasing our budget
coordinating committee, in the course of
support for the Framingham Public
he far
Schools by 7%; adding the second
reaching progress which the Planning Board,
installment of 15 new Patrol Officers
the Planning Board Administrator and all of
to the Framingham Police
our community development and permitting
Department; and rebuilding and
staff have made in improving the
staffing the Division of Public
effectiveness and timeliness of the permitting
Health.
process.
General Government4
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
Flexibility for the developer to
Lastly, by the end of 2014 we released a series
respond to their judgment as to what
of zoning proposals for the Central Business
the market will support.
District that builds on our 2008 development
vision for Downtown Framingham by adding
Having built an extremely strong consensus
strong tools to pursue what is known across
on a TOD approach that is appropriate for
the country and here in Massachusetts as
Framingham, the Town will be advancing a
Transit Oriented Development. TOD seeks
series of proposals to modernize the Central
to leverage transit assets such as our highly
Business District zoning to allow higher
utilized commuter rail station downtown, as a
residential density, manage parking
catalyst for residential development.
appropriately, and increase the certainty and
Residential TOD development has occurred
the flexibility developers can expect with
in other Massachusetts communities with
struggling downtown areas. This is an exciting
a 5- to 10-minute walk of the Framingham
vision for Downtown Framingham and one
Commuter Rail Station.
that is occurring around Massachusetts and
I will close by offering my thanks to all who
generation begins to shape the real estate
have worked so closely on so many of our
market and the environment in which they
initiatives and successes. A special thank you
increasingly choose to live and work one
to the Board of Selectmen for the continued
that is inherently walkable and bicycle
trust they place in me and also the amazing
friendly, and less dependent on the
group of municipal employees who make
automobile.
things happen for Framingham residents and
businesses day in and day out. They are all
When we asked a panel of successful TOD
truly outstanding. And to Jen, Cherry,
real estate developers why we have not seen
Jeanette and Maryellen, the staff here in the
the type of TOD development that other
communities have seen around their
are at the heart of what we accomplish for the
commuter stations, we received three answers:
taxpayers, residents and businesses of
Framingham.
Insufficient residential density to
Sincerely,
That our suburban-oriented parking
Robert Halpin,
requirements add significant costs to
Town Manager
the development; and
TC
OWN LERK
Memorial Building, Room 105 | 508-532-5521 | Townclerk@framinghamma.gov
Census. 37,467 Framingham residents are
source of information for most callers and registered to vote. The presence of a birthing
visitors to the Memorial Building. hospital, numerous nursing homes and many
th
Framingham is the 14 most populated assisted living facilities contribute to our
municipality in Massachusetts. 68,318 substantial work load.
residents were counted in the 2010 US
General Government5
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
Assistant Town Clerk Lisa Ferguson manages processed for a total of 1294 births to
our daily operations in the Town Clerk and Framingham residents. In October, the Death
Election Divisions. She trains and supervises VIP system became operational. This has
staff. Among many other responsibilities, significantly increased the work involved in
Lisa produces the Town Meeting Journal, processing burial permits and death
maintains the Town Clerk page on the Town certificates.
website, and along with the Town Clerk
administers the qualifying oath to appointed Lauren DiGiandomenico is the Election
State officials and appointed and elected Coordinator. The Election Division is
Town officials. Lisa has earned her Certified responsible for: conducting the Annual Town
Municipal Clerk designation from the
International Institute of Municipal Clerks. In voter/census database and its related street
the absence of the Town Clerk the Assistant listing; recording Town Meeting votes, filing
Town Clerk assumes the authority and Town Meeting original documents, preparing
responsibilities of that position. the Attorney General Bylaw submissions and
posting the bylaws when they are approved.
The Town Clerk Division is responsible for The Annual Town Meeting met over twelve
nights in May. A Special Town Meeting met
ndrd
records. Administrators Emily Black and on October 21st, 22 and 23.
Elena Finehouse registered 652 deaths and
530 marriages and issued 3934 dog licenses In 2014, Lauren registered 2403 new voters,
and 512 business certificates in 2014. Our deleted 4192 voters, amended the records of
revenue total was $235,000. Other 11,568 voters and processed 1742 absentee
responsibilities include but are not limited to: ballots. Three elections were held in 2014: the
processing and issuing burial permits, death Annual Town Election (10% turnout), the
certificates, marriage licenses, marriage State Primary (17%) and the State Election
certificates and underground storage tank (50%). We are grateful to many people for
permits; collecting fines for the Board of assisting us in providing excellent service to
Health, Conservation Commission, Police our voters. These include but are not limited
Department, Building and Public Works to: School Superintendents Scott and Lynch
Departments and Animal Control; who provide accessible voting locations at
maintaining all permanent Public Way Access their schools and the principals who loan us
permits, Zoning Board of Appeals, Planning their cafeterias, gyms and parking spaces on
Board and Historic Commission decisions election day; James Paolini, Brent Blair and
and appeals; conducting genealogy searches Town Facilities Management staff, Matt Torti
and issuing raffle permits. Emily is also and Ernie Moreau and School Building and
responsible for processing affidavits of Grounds staff, Domenic Jannetti and Keefe
correction of vital records, posting meetings Tech Facilities staff; Reverend Scaravelli and
and agendas and ensuring that the 48 hour Pastor Don Hegeman who generously
requirement is met, recording Conflict of provide St. Tarcisius and Wesley United
Interest receipts and registering births. Methodist Parish Centers as voting locations
at no cost; the Arcade management for
As a result of the Vitals Information providing employee parking on election day
Partnership (VIP) System we now receive all and our election workers who work 15+ hour
births to Framingham residents electronically. days to serve the voters.
This has doubled the time necessary for the
process. In 2014, 805 births at MWMC were The Board of Selectmen, Town employees,
registered and 489 out of town births were Town Officials, the Town Moderator and
General Government6
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
Town Meeting Members provide consistent Finally and most importantly I thank and
support to this office; it is a pleasure to work commend my small dedicated staff for their
with them and with all who participate in our hard work, professionalism and
administration and government. knowledgeable, and friendly attitudes. They
I am very grateful for the support of our excellent customer service.
dedicated, knowledgeable Division and
Department Heads. It is a privilege to call Respectfully submitted,
them my colleagues. Valerie Mulvey, Town Clerk
General Government7
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
TC
OWN OUNSEL
Memorial Building, Room 127 | 508-532-5406 | cpetrini@framinghamma.gov
I. Introduction & Overview conjunction with specific warrant articles. We
also provide advice and guidance to the
various committees of Town Meeting, and
to provide the 2014 Annual Report of the attend meetings of such committees as
Office of the Town Counsel. P&A operates needed.
the Office of the Town Counsel in
accordance with Article II, Section 5 of the Over the past several years, this office has
General Bylaws. We represent the Town in
litigation and appear on behalf of the Town litigation with efficiency, focus and positive
before all courts and administrative agencies results. Included in Section II of this report is
of the Commonwealth. In addition, we serve a comprehensive list describing the status of
as a liaison and a resource to various special cases that were active in 2014, as required by
counsel and insurance counsel representing Article II, Section 5.8 of the General Bylaws.
the Town in a variety of legal matters. We Included in Section III is a Budgetary
also attend meetings of boards, committees Overview section that summarizes the
and commissions of the Town as necessary or revenue, mitigation and avoided expenses this
as requested. P&A also drafts legal office helped achieve for the Town in 2014.
documents for Town officials, boards and
commissions upon request, and reviews legal II.2014 Report on Status of Framingham
contracts, deeds and agreements to which the Cases
Town is a party. We provide advice and
opinions to the Board of Selectmen, Town In accordance with Article II Sections 5.8 and
Manager, and various boards, committees, 1.5 of the General Bylaws, below is a list of
commissions, division heads and department the Framingham cases that were active in
heads in accordance with the Town bylaws 2014. I have included the case name, type of
case, and a brief description of the case with
Access to Town Counsel and Confidentiality the 2014 activities and 2015 activities through
of Attorney-Client Communications. February 28, 2015 summarized in the last
column on the right. This section is divided
In our capacity as Town Counsel, we attend into two parts. Part A summarizes cases that
the Annual Town Meeting and all special are handled by this office, and Part B
town meetings and we are available to provide summarizes cases handled by special counsel
opinions at such meetings upon request. We or insurance counsel.
also review all non-petition warrant articles
prior to inclusion in the warrant, and are
available to review and comment upon written
motions submitted in advance upon request in
General Government23
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
A.OFFICE OF TOWN COUNSEL CASES
MATTER TYPE 2014 STATUS/DISPOSITION
This case involved an original bypass appeal by an individual whom
Alves v. Town of Civil Service
the Town bypassed for a patrol officer position with the Police
Framingham
Department. The parties reached a resolution of this matter whereby
the petitioner withdrew the appeal and the Town agreed to revise
reasons for its bypass and consider the petitioner for a potential
future appointment with the Police Department. This matter is now
closed.
Avidia Bank, et al. v. Zoning This matter involves an attempt to construct a bank on the property
ZBAlocated at 222-236 Cochituate Road. The complaint includes two
permit, and a claim that the Office and Professional Zoning District
is invalid on its face and as applied to this property. Plaintiffs claim
that any commercially reasonable use of the property requires a
special permit, and that the zoning by-law therefore exceeds the
miss the complaint and
the matter should be resolved soon.
Bardellini v. Town of Probate This is a probate case involving paternity issues in which the Town
Framingham was named as party only to compel it to issue a revised birth
certificate in the event so ordered by the Court. The Town is not
actively participating in this case.
Butler v. Zoning Zoning
2013 decision to grant Danforth Green, LLC, the current developer
Board of Appeal and
of the Saxonville Planned Unit Development, a variance under
Danforth Green, LLC
c.40A, § 10, allowing construction of a 360-unit residential
development, including both rental and for-sale housing units, on a
property located off Danforth Street and Riverpath Drive. The
defendants, including the ZBA, moved for summary judgment in
June of 2013. The Court entered summary judgment in favor of the
Defendants on August 22, 2013. The plaintiff has appealed the
decision, and the Appeals Court issued a decision affirming the Land
Supreme Judicial Court and the U.S. Supreme Court, both of which
appeals have been fully exhausted and this matter is now closed.
Declaratory/ This is an action seeking declaratory and injunctive relief to enjoin
Butler v. Town of
Injunctive
Framingham
late the
accounting of and action plan to address both taxes wrongfully
collected and taxes due and owing as a result of a miscalculation of
General Government24
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
various discovery requests to the plaintiff on February 24, 2015,
including interrogatories, requests for admissions and requests for
production of documents. The Town awaits responses to such
discovery requests in accordance with Court rules.
Croft v. Conservation Wetlands This case involves an appeal under G.L. c. 249, § 4 challenging the
Commission
June, 2014 with respect to alleged wetlands violations on property
located at and near 0 Dartmouth Drive. In December, 2014, the
parties agreed to stay the matter for 90 days to discuss a potential
resolution of the case, along with a related District Court proceeding
through which the plaintiff is seeking to challenge citations issued by
the Conservation Department under G.L. c. 40, § 21D in connection
with the violations. The parties are currently discussing a potential
global resolution of these cases.
Croft v. Planning Land Use
Board
approval not required (ANR) under the Subdivision Control Law
with respect to property located at 1147 Edmands Road. The Town
served interrogatories and requests for production of documents
upon the plaintiffs on July 7, 2014 and is in the process of ongoing
discovery review.
Croft/Nexum v. Land Use This matter concerns an appeal of the conditions of approval issued
Planning by the Planning Board in a decision for Definitive Subdivision Plan
Board/Board of
Health 45 Nixon Road, as recommended by various letters to the Planning
Board from the Board of Health. The plaintiffs contend that the
conditions of approval are unreasonable and beyond the authority of
both the Planning Board and the Board of Health. The Town served
interrogatories upon the other parties on December 30, 2014.
Discovery is ongoing.
DePietri v. Wetlands
Conservation conditions issued by the Conservation Commission relating to
Commission notices of intent seeking approval to construct three single family
dwellings on three parcels of property located at 29 Pleasant Street.
On February 17, 2015, the plaintiff filed an assented-to motion to
stay the matter pending related proceedings before the MassDEP.
El Manahri The Licensing
Hermit, Inc. v. Town
of Framingham package store license under G.L. c. 138, § 15. On October 14, 2014,
the date of the scheduled hearing on the appeal before the Alcoholic
Beverages Control Commission, El Manahri withdrew its appeal with
prejudice due to its statutory ineligibility for the license based on the
citizenship of certain of its corporate directors. This matter is now
closed. Since withdrawing its appeal, El Manahri has filed a new
license application.
Ferrari v. Zoning Zoning
Board of Appeals
General Government25
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
sought the right, after having razed a condemned fire damaged
existing single family dwelling situated on a single lot locate at 35
Waveney Road, to divide the lot into two building lots, one with less
than the required area of the zoning By-Law. The plaintiff alleges
that the ZBA failed to issue a timely decision and that the decision
judgment which, following opposition from this office, was denied
by the Court. The Town served the plaintiffs with discovery
interrogatories and requests for production of documents in April,
2014. Plaintiff subsequently agreed to dismiss the case and the case
has been closed out.
Fox v. Town of Civil Rights This is a lawsuit filed against the Town, the School Committee and
Framingham certain School Department officials by Kevin Fox, a former
Framingham High School guidance counselor until March
2013. The Complaint consists of several statutory, constitutional and
civil rights claims against the various defendants arising from the
officials for his objection to their response to an alleged sexual
assault on a 15 year old female student by an 18 year old male
student in or about April 2012. The Plaintiff contends that the
School officials ignored or rejected his recommendations in the
aftermath of the alleged assault and then retaliated against him over
the course of several months before he resigned in March 2013. The
Plaintiff amended his complaint in June, 2014 to add the
Framingham School Committee as a party. His amended complaint
seeks damages from the School Committee and the individually
named school employee defendants, including compensatory and
punitive damages, compensation for his alleged emotional pain and
The Town was
dismissed as a party in the case by the Court in July 2014. The
remaining parties currently are in the process of exchanging
discovery, which is scheduled to conclude in the spring of 2015.
Framingham Labor This matter involves the Framingham Firefighters Local 1652
Firefighters Local petition to the Joint Labor Management Committee in connection
1652 JLMC Petition with the negotiation of a success agreement between the Town and
the union. The current agreement expired as of June 30, 2014. The
longevity/sick leave buyback, sick leave documentation and
compensatory time, among other issues. The JLMC held a hearing
in this matter on January 8, 2015.
Framingham-Franklin Zoning This is an action pursuant to G.L. c. 40A, §17, appealing a decision
LLC v. Zoning Board of the Framingham Zoning Board of Appeals, which upheld a
of Appeals
Commissioner had denied plaintiff Framingham-
request for zoning enforcement, in which plaintiff requested that the
Building Commissioner take enforcement action against the
construction of a Dunkin Donuts restaurant at 430 Franklin Street in
General Government26
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
Framingham. The complaint neglected to name as a defendant the
owner of 430 Franklin Street, SEDE Realty, LLC, which is the real
party in interest. On February 25, 2015, the ZBA served the plaintiff
with a motion to dismiss for failure to name a necessary party. The
position to such
motion.
Framingham Office Zoning This case was an appeal under G.L. c. 40A, § 17 of the Planning
Realty, LLC v.
Planning Board, et al. permits and waivers in connection with the proposed building
expansion and other work at 15-16 Pleasant Street and 86 RR New
York Avenue Rear. Shortly after filing its lawsuit, the plaintiff
abutter, Framingham Office Realty, LLC, resolved this matter with
the defendant recipients of the above-described zoning relief. The
plaintiff filed a stipulation of dismissal on April 16, 2014. This
matter is now closed.
Grateful Head v. Declaratory
Town of Framingham Judgment execution of a search warrant by the Framingham Police which
resulted in the seizure of suspected drug paraphernalia from the
The shop has sued for a
declaratory judgment that the items seized can legally be sold, and
moved for a preliminary injunction seeking the return of the items
seized. The Town, with the assistance of the Middlesex District
was a pending criminal case in Framingham District Court against
the shop owner and two other individuals and that the items seized
are evidence for use in the case. The Court issued a ruling denying
The Town filed an
answer to the complaint dated October 31, 2013. This civil case was
largely dormant throughout 2014 while the above-mentioned
criminal case was pending. The criminal proceeding was resolved in
2014 when the Plaintiff in this civil matter, Terry Wilson, admitted to
sufficient facts and agreed to a period of supervised probation. The
civil case was dismissed without prejudice by agreement in February
2015.
Huntington Wetlands/ This case involves an appeal of a Conservation Commission order
Properties, LLC v. Certiorari denying a notice of intent to construct a single family home and
Conservation associated site improvements at 13 Pelham Avenue. The
Commission Commission issued its denial orders under the Wetlands Protection
Act and the Framingham Wetlands Protection Bylaw, respectively,
on December 31, 2012.
motion for judgment on the pleadings held in August, 2014, the
Court issued judgment in favor of the Conservation Commission.
The Plaintiff filed a notice of appeal.
In the Matter of Wetlands This matter was an appeal by neighbors of a superseding
Debra Edelstein, New order of conditions issued by the MassDEP to allow the New
England Wildflower a deer exclusion
Society fence. The Conservation Commission was named as a party
General Government27
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
in interest insofar as it had issued the underlying order of
conditions, which the MassDEP affirmed in its superseding
order, with certain additional conditions. As the parties
prepared for a hearing that had been scheduled for January,
29, 2015, New England Wildflower Society withdrew its
notice of intent. This matter is now closed.
Marist Fathers of Zoning Appeal This matter involved an appeal under G.L. c. 40A, § 17 from a
Boston and Walden decision of the ZBA denying plaintiff Walden Behavioral
Behavioral Care, LLC
v.Zoning Board ofstructures upon property located at 518 Pleasant Street.
Appeals Walden sought to use the property as a facility for the
treatment of obesity, eating disorders, mood disorders and
other medical and psychiatric conditions, with inpatient and
outpatient services. After engaging in discovery in 2014,
Walden Behavioral Care withdrew its proposal and filed a
notice of dismissal on November 12, 2014. This matter is
now closed.
Norton v. Wetlands
Conservation dated
Commission
the Court
remanding the matter back to the Commission for the Commission
to apply the exception language of 310 CMR 10.58(2)(a)(1)(d) in
determining whether the underlying stream is perennial or
for a superseding order of conditions.
This is the first of three Paulini lawsuits, and it is has been stayed by
Paulini Loam, LLC v. Zoning
the court pending the outcome of the third lawsuit, which will be
Zoning Board of
described below. In December of 2005, the Zoning Board of
Appeals, Land Court
Misc. Case No.
construct a concrete batching plant at 597 Old Connecticut Path. At
318083 KCL
the time of the initial application, the property was zoned General
Manufacturing. Paulini claimed that the concrete batching plant was
allowed as of right under Section III.G.1.a of the Zoning Bylaw,
the General Manufacturing district. The Building Commissioner
ruled that the proposed use required a special permit under Section
obnoxious noise, vibration, smoke, gas, fumes, odors, dust or other
objectionable Paulini filed this appeal seeking to
General Government28
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
declaration from the Court that the proposed plant did not require a
special permit. There has been extensive discovery, including
depositions, in this case, but it has been stayed by the Court for
several years.
This is the second of three Paulini lawsuits and has also been stayed
Paulini Loam LLC v. Zoning
by the Land Court. In December of 2005, a Special Town Meeting
Zoning Board of
approved two amendments to the Zoning By-law, one of which
Appeals, Land Court
changed the zoning designation of the area, including 597 Old
Misc. Case No.
Connecticut Path, to Office Professional, such that the proposed use
325212 KCL
became prohibited and could not be authorized even through a
special permit. The second amendment changed the procedures and
thresholds for site plan review. Paulini filed this second lawsuit, this
time naming the town as defendant, challenging the validity of the
Zoning By-law amendments. In the meantime, Paulini filed a
definitive subdivision plan for the Property, which was approved by
the Planning Board, thereby freezing the zoning of the Property for
8 years from the date the subdivision plan was approved. As a result,
the Property is still governed by the General Manufacturing zoning
as it existed in 2005. We filed a motion for summary judgment on
behalf of the Town in this case, arguing that the two amendments
are valid as a matter of law. That motion is still pending at the Land
Court. Following the filing of this motion the parties moved to
continue the trial date in this case. This case remains pending but is
dormant like the first Paulini Loam case.
This case represents the most recent appeal filed by Paulini Loam,
Paulini Loam, LLC v. Zoning
Zoning Board of
Appeals, Land Court
concrete manufacturing plant proposed to be located at 597 Old
Misc. Case No. 09
MISC 401214 KCL
second is a request for a declaratory judgment that the proposed use
of the site for a concrete manufacturing facility is allowed by right
under the Zoning Bylaw. The Board filed a motion for summary
judgment on the grounds that it is not disputed that the plans
submitted to the Building Commissioner showed a structure, within
the meaning of the Zoning Bylaw, within a required setback. On
issues of material fact that preclude the granting of summary
as located,
designed, and mitigated will be offensive because of injurious or
The Land Court held a nine-day trial in this matter in October and
Decemb-
trial briefs the Court held closing arguments on July 1, 2014. The
Land Court took the case under advisement and has not yet issued a
General Government29
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
ruling.
These two lawsuits involved the Town and SB General Contracting,
SB General Construction
Contracting v. Town
at was
of Framingham I
performed primarily in 2010. The Project consisted of work on two
streets, New York Avenue and California Avenue, and principally
involved replacing existing sewer force mains with new larger
SB General
diameter force mains. In March of 2011, SB filed a suit against the
Contracting v. Town
Town in Norfolk Superior Court, claiming the Town breached the
of Framingham II
Project agreement by failing to pay SB for certain work performed
on the Project. SB alleged $341,021 in damages plus interest, which
the Town disputed. The parties attempted to resolve the matter
through voluntary mediation, but were unable to reach agreement
primarily due to the assertion against the Town in April and May of
2012 of third party claims by two private property owners and the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts alleging that asbestos-
contaminated soils from the Project site were improperly disposed in
a residential area in Milford, Massachusetts during the summer of
2010, with estimated clean-up costs in excess of $750,000. The
property owners also claimed unspecified property damages,
emotional distress and other damages.
The Town filed suit against SB in July 2012 in Middlesex Superior
Court for various claims pertaining to the asbestos dumping
issue. The parties conducted pre-trial discovery and motion practice
in that case, and obtained a court ruling that SB had a duty to defend
the Town under the applicable defense and indemnity clause agreed
to by SB in the contract documents.
The Town and SB, along with other potentially responsible parties,
also engaged in pre-suit negotiations under G.L. c. 21E, § 4A related
to the Milford site. Following mediation in August 2013, the parties
reached a resolution of both the 2011 and 2012 actions and agreed
on a cost sharing arrangement for the remediation of the Asbestos
Containing Material (ACM) soil pile, and involved the exchange of
releases between and among all of the parties.
contributed $175,000 towards the total settlement of $975,000. This
settlement was approved by the Special Town Meeting on October
16, 2013.
The ACM soil pile was recently removed by the asbestos contractor
hired by the parties pursuant to the settlement agreement, and a
certificate of compliance for the site was issued by MassDEP in
September 2014. The Commonwealth has threatened to seek civil
fines against the Town and the other parties for various statutory
General Government30
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
violations pertaining to the improper soil disposal. As part of the
settlement, the mediator (a retired and well-respected Superior Court
judge) agreed to advocate with the state to avoid or minimize any
fines issued. The Town is currently in negotiations with the
violations without litigation. If any fines are issued by the
Commonwealth, the Town expects such fines to be minimal insofar
as the parties cooperated and exercised good faith in coming to an
agreement to clean up the ACM soil pile. If fines are issued, the
settlement agreement provides that each party, including the Town,
shall bear responsibility for paying its own fines.
SEIU Local 888 Labor
labor laws by instructing a bargaining unit member in the Health
Unfair Labor Practice
Department to train a member of management to perform
Charge
bargaining unit work and having members of management conduct
bargaining unit work, namely pre-rental housing unit inspections.
The union and the Town resolved this matter by agreement in
November, 2014. Under the agreement, pre-rental unit inspections
will be conducted exclusively by inspectors who are members of the
bargaining unit except in cases of emergency when no unit member
is available. This matter is now closed.
This case involves a request by Robert Talmo, owner of the property
Talmo v. Zoning Zoning/Land
at 28 Nixon Road, for zoning enforcement with respect to the
Board of Appeals Use
abutting property at 30 Nixon Road. Mr. Talmo alleges that a barn
on the property at 30 Nixon Road, which is in a residential zoning
district, is not in compliance with the Zoning Bylaw. The Board has
served discovery requests and responses upon the plaintiff. On
February 10, 2012 the plaintiff filed a motion for summary judgment.
st 2, 2013.
dismissal as to Count II of the Complaint, and sought
summary judgment. On November 11, 2013, the Court denied the
monitor this matter while it is being actively litigated between the
neighbors, who constitute the real parties in dispute.
Town of Framingham Contract insurance carrier,
v.Berkeley Assurance
Company
denial of coverage for defense or indemnity for the above-referenced
case of Fox v. Framingham. The denial of coverage is based on
officials involved, was aware of circumstances that would give rise to
a claim under the policy well before the July 1, 2013 inception date
of the policy and failed to disclose the circumstances to Berkley prior
to the inception date of the policy. The Town filed its Complaint in
General Government31
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
this matter on November 3, 2014 seeking declaratory judgment and
violation of Chapter 93A/176D against Verus/Berkley. The
defendants filed a counterclaim on December 8, 2014, which the
Town has answered. The Court has scheduled a litigation control
conference for March 10, 2015.
This case is a zoning enforcement action against Ekard
Town of Framingham Zoning
v.Ekard EquipmentEnforcement
Company, Inc.
located in the R-1 (Residential) Zoning District. Russo Bros.,
Inc., which is owned by the same persons that own Ekard,
operates a construction business at the property. On May 30,
2012, following an inspection conducted after the Town
received complaints of zoning violations at the property, the
der
to Ekard, ordering Ekard to remove unpermitted commercial
tenants from the property, cease and desist all welding
activities, and remove stockpiled materials and unpermitted
structures. Upon appeal of the order the ZBA issued a
decision, filed with the Town Clerk on January 11, 2013,
finding that Ekard had committed various violations at the
property and ordering Ekard to undertake compliance
measures, including among others restoring the property to its
condition of 2008, removing unpermitted commercial tenants,
removing unpermitted structures at the property, including a
salt shed, and ceasing from the storage of salt on the site.
Town filed a verified complaint and motion for a preliminary
injunction in the Middlesex Superior Court on January 23,
2014.
On February 3, 2014, after a hearing, the Court issued an
preliminary injunction, which the Town served on Ekard on
February 4, 2014. The Town currently is working to ensure
This is a case brought by a condominium association to recover
Trustees of Prescott Condominium/
condo fees. The Town was named as a defendant/party in interest
Gardens Lien
Condominium Trust
condo lien. On February 6, 2015, the Court issued an order allowing
v.Town of
th
Framingham, et al.
awarding damages and a lien to the plaintiff and reaffirming the
General Government32
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
VHS Acquisition No. Zoning
site plan for a proposed
9 v. Planning Board
24,000-square-foot outpatient surgical center proposed by Newton-
Wellesley Hospital at the former Comp USA facility at 500
Cochituate Road in Framingham. Newton-Wellesley withdrew its
plans for the facility and the appeal of the Planning Board Decision
is now dormant.
B.SPECIAL COUNSEL/INSURANCE DEFENSE COUNSEL CASES
Below is a list of significant cases that presently are being handled by special counsel or insurance
defense counsel.
MATTER TYPE STATUS
Casaburri v. Town of Civil Rights This case involved claims against the Town alleging that Town police
Framingham officers used excessive force and committed civil rights violations in
arresting an individual for various alleged crimes stemming from a
police investigation of car theft at the ADESA Auto Auction
that the plaintiff assaulted police personnel during the underlying
Insurance Association (MIIA), has retained the firm of Brody,
Hardoon, Perkins and Kesten to represent the Town in this case.
The parties held a mediation before a magistrate judge on January 5,
2015 and February 6, 2015. The mediation resulted in a settlement
of this case. This matter is now closed.
Employment
Charton v. Town of
Resources in Middlesex Superior Court in August, 2009
Framingham
against the Town and the former Town Manager, alleging
constitutional, contract, defamation, emotional distress and
state whistleblower claims
2009. MIIA has retained Brody, Hardoon, Perkins and
Kesten to represent the Town and the former Town
dismissed by summary judgment in March, 2011. In May,
2012 Ms. Charton filed a stipulation of dismissal as to all
remaining claims against the Town, and thus the Town is no
longer a defendant in this case.
Ms. Charton filed a related Charge of Discrimination with the
Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination. Ms.
Charton subsequently dismissed the Town from the MCAD
proceeding with prejudice and therefore Mr. Suso remained
the only defendant. After holding hearings in 2012 and 2013,
the MCAD Hearing Officer issued a ruling dated December
General Government33
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
Discrimination. After Ms. Charton filed an appeal of the
Commission issued a decision dated May 2, 2014 dismissing
her claims in favor of the Town. This matter is now closed.
Dresser v. Town of Civil Rights This is an action for money damages for alleged violations of the
Framingham
Massachusetts Civil Rights Act, and various state torts. MIIA has
retained Brody, Hardoon, Perkins and Kesten to represent the
Town. The plaintiff alleges that he was falsely arrested, and that his
arrest was effectuated with excessive force. The Town denies
arrest, the plaintiff served as a counselor for an agency and had the
care of three individuals with special needs. He was reported to the
police for leaving such individuals in a van while he mowed the lawn
at his home in 85-degree heat. Upon investigation by the police,
including questioning of the plaintiff and reporting parties, the
plaintiff was placed under arrest for neglect of a disabled person.
The Court issued an order requiring the parties to complete fact
discovery by January 30, 2015, complete expert discovery by April
15, 2015 and file motions for summary judgment by May 1, 2015.
The Court has scheduled a status conference in this matter for
March 9, 2015.
Gagne v. Town of Discrimination This is a Superior Court action filed against the Town by a former
Framingham employee in January, 2015 for alleged handicap discrimination under
G.L. c. 151B. This matter originally was the subject of a Charge of
Discrimination filed with the Massachusetts Commission Against
Discrimination MCAD against the Town by a former employee.
MCAD dismissed the matter with prejudice after a request for
investigative conference. The plaintiff subsequently commenced this
action in the Superior Court. The Town filed an answer on January
26, 2015. The Town is represented in this case by insurance defense
counsel Morrison Mahoney LLP.
Hache v. Town of Discrimination This matter concerns a Charge of Discrimination before the MCAD
Framingham by a former employee of the Town. The claimant alleges that she
was discriminated against on the basis of a disability in connection
with a performance review in November 2012 and a related
compensation decision. The Town denies the allegations and
upon poor performance issues, including unproductive and
disruptive conduct. This matter is being defended by Morrison
Mahoney LL
This matter remains pending at MCAD, and the Town is awaiting
General Government34
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
Norfolk & Dedham Tort This case involved claims against the Town alleging that work by
Group v. Town of public works personnel caused a pressure spike in water piping that
Framingham
represented
in this case by Pierce, Davis & Perritano, LLP. The parties settled
this matter in June, 2014. This matter is now closed.
Otero v. Town of Discrimination This case concerns a Charge of Discrimination filed against the
Framingham Town and its Department of Public Works alleging that the plaintiff
was laid off due to gender or a physical handicap. MIIA has retained
Brody, Hardoon, Perkins and Kesten to represent the Town in this
matter. The Town filed a motion for summary judgment in May,
2014. After conducting a hearing on the matter, on July 7, 2014 the
atter is now
closed.
Picard v. Town of Tort This was a small claims action filed by the plaintiff alleging that the
Framingham Town neglected to take proper action in connection with an alleged
school assault. The parties reached a resolution in January, 2015, and
this matter is now closed.
Player v. Town of Tort This was a tort action brought by a former tenant who leased office
Framingham space in the Maynard Building located at 14 Vernon Street. The
plaintiff alleged that air quality conditions at the building caused him
to suffer from mold toxicity. The Town took the position that the
plaintiff provided notice of his claims and commenced this action
after the relevant limitations periods had expired and could not
demonstrate damages or a causal link between building conditions
and his alleged injury. This matter was settled in 2014 and is now
closed.
Rogers v. Town of Civil Rights This case involved claims against the Town alleging that the plaintiff
Framingham was wrongfully arrested with excessive force after the police reported
to a call for a family disturbance. The plaintiff also alleged that he
was beaten during booking. The Town moved for summary
judgment, through insurance defense counsel Brody, Hardoon,
Perkins and Kesten, and on January 13, 2015, the Court issued an
closed.
Smith v. Town of Discrimination This matter concerns a claim by an applicant for a position in the
Framingham Callahan Senior Center that the Town discriminated against him on
the basis of his age by failing to hire him for the position. This
matter was recently commenced and was submitted to the
insurance carrier for coverage and defense. As of the drafting of this
respond to the complaint in the near future.
General Government35
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
Stamps v. Town of Civil Rights This case arises from the accidental shooting of Eurie Stamps on
Framingham, et al. January 5, 2011 in connection with a Framingham Police
Middlesex District Attorney conducted an investigation and
determined that criminal charges would not issue against the officer
filed an action against the Town and others in the U.S. District Court
for the District of Massachusetts seeking claims for alleged civil
rights violations and wrongful death. To date the Town has been
defended in this case by MIIA, which has retained the firm of Brody,
Hardoon, Perkins and Kesten to represent the Town in this matter.
On July 1, 2014, the Town filed a motion for partial summary
judgment seeking dismissal of all counts pending against the Town,
wrongful death under G.L. c. 258, § 2. The Court issued a decision
to all counts except those set forth under Counts 2 and 3 alleging
Fourth Amendment violations based on the alleged use of excessive
force
The plaintiff cross-he punitive
damages claims against Officer Duncan. Appeal briefs are expected
to be submitted and argued sometime in 2015.
Van Loan v. Town of Civil Rights This case involves claims for civil rights violations alleging that Town
Framingham police officers wrote false police reports and conspired to maliciously
prosecute him for the sale of narcotics. Through insurance counsel,
the Town filed a motion for summary judgment. On March 27,
judgment and dismissed the case. This matter is now closed.
III.Budgetary Overview
As in past years, I would like to conclude appropriation of $675,000.
this report with a brief discussion of
budgeting and legal expenses. In 2014 this Following is a chart summarizing the
office continued its positive track record of revenue, mitigation and avoided expenses
procuring new revenue for the General Fund achieved in FY 2014 by the efforts of the
or helping to avoid the imposition of Office of Town Counsel working with other
additional costs to the Town. The services departments, boards or commissions, or
provided by the Office of the Town Counsel through the substantial assistance of this
have resulted in monetary benefits to the office.
Town that has resulted in direct revenue,
mitigation and avoided expenses nearly two
General Government36
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
A. FY 2014 Revenue, Mitigation and Avoided Expenses
Matter: Description:
Payments Received Payments received in FY2014 for sewage transport under the February
from Ashland for 13, 2004 Decision issued by the Department of Telecommunications and
sewage transport in Energy, and pursuant to the January 1, 2007 IMA between Ashland and
FY 2014 Framingham. This represents more than a 100-fold increase over what
864 572.51 Framingham received from 1964-2003 under the 1963 Intermunicipal
(Revenue) Agreement with Ashland ($5500 per year). Through 2013 the Town has
received $8 million dollars in payments from Ashland ($7,611,286.84)
under the successful 2004 Decision and the 2007 IMA that resulted.
Pelham Apartments
and Framingham in the Pelham litigation, the Town was able to cease trash collection at
Housing Authority the 550 units at the Pelham Apartments, which results in avoided
Trash Collection expenses estimated at more than $100,000 per year. By virtue of the
Pelham ruling, the Town also was able to cease trash collection at
(Avoided Expense) approximately 1,000 units owned by the Framingham Housing
Authority, thus realizing savings of approximately an additional
estimated $200,000 per year. These savings amount to approximately
$300,000 per year on an annual recurring basis without adjusting for
inflation.
Calvao, et al. v. Town
of Framingham
$150,000
(Avoided Expense) establishment of a 24-day work period under 29 U.S.C. 207(k), the
Town has avoided liability to date for approximately $1,500,000 in
damages, in view of the federal law that often allows for double
violated the Fair Labor Standards Act. Additionally, the Town has to
date avoided the need to pay FLSA overtime to officers who work more
than 40 hours per week (CBA overtime is paid), thus saving the Town
approximately $150,000 per year on an annual basis.
TOTAL FY 2014 1,314,572.51
While we cannot promise that the revenue, CONCLUSION
mitigation and avoided expenses achieved in
FY 2014 will continue at the same level in In closing, the attorneys and staff at Petrini
the future, we will continue to exercise & Associates, P.C. wish to thank the Board
creativity, diligence, and our best legal skill of Selectmen and the residents of the Town
to address the litigation that does arise as we for the opportunity to serve as your Town
advocate on behalf of the best interests of Counsel.
the Board of Selectmen and the taxpayers of
the Town of Framingham. Christopher J. Petrini
Petrini & Associates, P.C.
Town Counsel
General Government37
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
HR
UMAN ESOURCES
Memorial Building, Room B7 | 508-532-5490 | human.resources@framinghamma.gov
The Human Resources Division consists of Group Insurance Commission. Robin and
the Department of Human Resources and the Jane process all claims and work closely with
Department of Veterans Services. the Retirement Board and the Massachusetts
Teachers Retirement System. The benefits
Human Resources team also started a quarterly newsletter and
The department of Human Resources has two new health and wellness programs
multiple responsibilities. The division offering yoga and Zumba on-site two times
oversees the recruitment and hiring process of per week and are planning to expand the on-
new employees for all Town positions, in site wellness opportunities.
accordance with the established Town policies
and procedures, as well as new employee Recruitment: Judy Caron and the HR
orientation. The department maintains the Generalist/Analyst. She manages the
employment and recruitment process,
drafts, updates, revises and interprets the including advertising, reviewing employment
applications, interviewing candidates,
plays a key role in negotiating and interpreting checking references, including Criminal
all collective bargaining agreements; fosters Record Offender Information (CORI) and
Productive labor and employee relations; pre-employment testing when applicable. She
performs cost and staffing analysis; assists in is also coordinates Town compliance with the
employee development and training; Department of Transportation CDL drug and
establishes, maintains, and analyzes employee alcohol testing program, compliance with the
benefit packages, including health and FMLA certification and tracks leaves of
wellness, and oversees the employee absence. She oversees the unemployment
recognition programs. The department insurance, processing or questioning claims.
oversees the Family and Medical Leave act With the help of the Technical Services
absences; manages Town and School benefits Department, Judy has successfully
and Workers Compensation, and implemented an electronic application and
unemployment insurance program. applicant tracking system and has added social
media and diversity websites to our recruiting
Benefits: Robin Tusino is the Benefits efforts. Judy also assists with employee
Manager. Robin is responsible for all relations and coordinates with the Town
benefits, with the Benefits Assistant, Jane EAP.
Desilets, they manage health, dental, Section
125 flexible spending, Health Reimbursement
account (HRA), life and disability insurance Coordinator: This position is currently
programs for the Town, Schools and Retirees. vacant. This position is responsible
They are responsible for new employee
benefits orientation and coordinates open program for School and Town employees.
enrollment periods. With the assistance of This position investigates accidents, identifies
several employees and volunteers, Robin and ways to prevent accidents, and coordinates
Jane successfully enrolled almost 9000 Safety training with various departments.
employees, dependents and retirees in the This position works closely with an
State health plans offered through the (GIC) Occupational Health Nurse from AllOne
General Government38
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
Health, Mary Saunders, who is on-site one with a consultant on updating job
afternoon per week to provide case descriptions. Brant is also responsible for the
management and coordinate care with treating Employee Recognition program and
physicians. This position is also responsible Employee Sick Bank process.
for processing all claims and medical bills for
employees and work related disability public The division is committed to customer
safety retirees. service, and providing services to our
employees, retirees and citizens in a
Administration: Brant Johnson is the courteous, efficient and professional manner.
trative Assistant. He
provides administrative support to all Human Respectfully submitted,
Resources staff. He coordinates all HR events Dolores Hamilton,
and special projects. He has worked closely Human Resources Director
VBS
ETERANS ENEFITS AND ERVICES
Memorial Building, Room B11 | 508-532-5515 | veterans@framinghamma.gov
The Mission of the Department is to aid, soldiers Elio Bonvini, USA, Luigi D.
assist, advise and advocate for veterans and Ferrazzi, USA, Alessandro L. Falconi, USA,
their dependents regarding their rights to Merton L. Chouinard, USA, and the family of
benefits and services under local, state and Philip Rogers Thomas, USA, Korea. Featured
federal laws. Services offered by the speaker at a Memorial Day was MAJ Michael
Department include emergency financial Currie, 151 Regional Support Group, MANG
assistance; help with obtaining food, clothing, a veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom
shelter, and assistance in filling out claim (Afghanistan).
forms for federal benefits.
Veteran Services provided Chapter 115
benefits for an average case load of 65
veterans and or widows.
In preparation for Memorial Day, 4,500 flags
were placed on the graves of veterans in
Grove Cemetery was decorated with a great
deal of enthusiastic volunteers from all over
MetroWest area.
Memorial Day Ceremonies featured the
presentation of four Medals of Liberty to
families of Framingham residents killed in The Walsh and Cameron Middle Schools both
combat. Medals were presented to family held Veterans Day programs where the
members on behalf of WWI soldier Fred veteran came to talk about their experiences.
Murphy, USA(posthumously awarded Silver At the Fuller School the VSO and Jon
Star for actions in France 1918), and WWII McEntegart of the Marine Corps League
General Government39
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
presented a program with military uniforms. December display in the Main Library Display
Thanks to all the schools for their kind window.
invitations and programs.
Respectfully Submitted,
A Town sponsored Veterans Council has had
Peter R. Harvell
a successful fist year.
Veterans Service Officer
TH
Anniversary of the Christmas Truce
TS
ECHNOLOGY ERVICES
Memorial Building, Room B25 | 508-532-5829 | technology.services@framinghamma.gov
Carly Premo Melo, Director Scott LeLievre, Applications Manager
Alan D. Holt, Manager of Database Services Jennifer Nall, Administrative Assistant
James V. Schiavone, Manager of Network Services John Cox, Network Technician
Justine Diatelevi, Manager of Voice and Office Services Nichol Figueiredo, Public Information Officer/
Charles J. Duross, Public Safety Systems Administrator Webmaster
FY14 Operating Budget:
$1,436,669
The Technology Services Division is Human Resources to efficiently automate the
committed to providing the highest level of hiring process by transitioning application
service possible while being fiscally information to employee records to process
responsible. Goals focus on maintaining a and post the information into Munis.
stable, up to date network and end-user
environment that enables and enhances user Munis
productivity. Additionally, we look to
With the help of Tyler Technology -
leverage technology wherever possible to
developed new Real Estate, Personal
streamline and automate processes.
Property & General Billing forms for the
The Technology Services division is
Accounts Payable check with Accounting
organized into 6 service areas.
Department.
Applicant Tracking was implemented in
Human Resources with Framingham job
Applications Services
openings posted to the Employee Self
Scott LeLievre, Manager
Service streamlining job applicants into
Top Accomplishments for 2014
Munis.
Application Services is responsible for the
Trained department heads in Applicant
Tracking to coordinate roles and
management systems for both School and
workflow.
Town for over 300 users. In the past year, we
Coordinated data workflow with schools
improved the automation process of data
using a new school substitute teacher
import between town and school applications.
software AESOP.
New business forms were created to improve
processes in General Billing and Tax Billing.
Applicant Tracking was implemented in
General Government40
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
the most progressive communities for e-
Organized installation of MUNIS v10.5 in
permitting.
our Test environment with intentions of
installing v10.5 in April 2015.Framingham hosted a regional meeting of
permitting agencies in the New England
Resolved over 225 TylerTech incidents.
area including New York City, Boston,
Prepared and processed all Year End
and the Commonwealth. Customer
f
presentations were made by Baltimore,
Framingham, and Westwood.
Database Services
Other Projects and Activities
Alan Holt, Manager
A new Contact Relation Management
Top Accomplishments for 2014
program was installed with Community
and Economic Development piloting the
Permits and Licenses
initial use.
Over 13,000 new permits were issued in
Continued to work with Planning Board,
2014 along with over 6,000 renewals of
CED, Building Department, Health, and
cyclical permits and certificates using the
Town Clerk to convert paper records to
nterprise permitting system
Accela Automation. This is an increase of
Management System, Laserfiche. Working
almost 20% over the previous year.
with vendors to scan historic records,
Over 260,000 permits are stored in the
over 10,000 new documents were added
system and available to the public through
to the electronic archives.
Continued to enhance public access to
a week. The oldest permit record is a
Property, Permit, and Mapping
Tank Storage permit from 1921!
Over 150 different types of permits,
licenses, and certificates are tracked. The
traffic, (about 400 inquiries a day), is from
records are maintained by 12 different
the use of these public services. Citizens
departments. The system interfaces with
can access this information 24 hours a
the Town GIS, Assessor records, State
day, 7 days a week.
licensing authorities, and DigSafe.
The most commonly issued permit is the
Public Safety
Residential Renovation permit issued by
Charles Duross, Systems Administrator
the Building Department. During 2014 a
Public Safety is responsible for supporting key
total of 1,662 were issued, a 20.1%
information technology applications and
increase from 2013. Electrical, Fire Alarm,
related technologies utilized by the Police and
Gas, Fire Detector Certifications, and
Fire Departments, and ensuring that critical
Plumbing were the next most common.
public safety systems function efficiently and
New permit types were created to track
effectively on a 24/7 basis.
Tobacco permits, Foreclosed properties,
and Donation Bins. Pilot tests were
2014 Accomplishments
started for Rental Housing Inspections
Funding was requested and approved for
and Facility Rentals.
a Fire Department Mobile Data Upgrade;
Framingham received the2014
this project includes replacement
Innovation
ToughBooks for Fire Apparatus as well as
group, recognizing Framingham as one of
a web-enabled version upgrade of the Fire
Department records management
General Government41
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
application, Firehouse. The web version Sent 372,100
combined with the new equipment will
allow improved Fire data access from the Network Statistics:
field for Fire personnel, including firemen
IP Cameras - 167; 27 new in 2014
and inspectors. The project is expected to
Town Owned Buildings connected
be completed in the Spring of 2015.
with RCN supplied Fiber 41
A replacement SharePoint server was
Servers and appliances - 92 ; Virtual: 38
installed for DHQ, the application used
by Police for policy management, sharing
Up Time:
information, training, details and
Critical servers requiring 24X7 up time
departmental notifications. Additionally, a
99.999%; only unavailable during
new SQL server was installed to replace
maintenance windows
multiple individual back-end SQL servers
Non-Critical servers 9x5 uptime 99.999%
utilized by Police; this server will also be
only unavailable during maintenance
used as a centralized SQL server for Fire
windows
Department applications.
RCN Fiber - Overall availability 99.999%
knowledge of SharePoint was
instrumental in configuring a new
User Services
SharePoint environment for the Town;
User Services is responsible for technology
this new tool will enable information
support services to Town Departments,
sharing as well as providing a robust
including Help Desk, set-up and training,
project management portal.
email, Internet, hardware and software
support, inventory maintenance, policy and
Network Services
licensed software audits. It is also responsible
James V. Schiavone, Manager
for PC, printer and software upgrades and
John Cox, Network Technician
maintenance; Town Meeting equipment and
Network Services plans, configures and
presentation assistance to Town
maintains all Town of Framingham network
administration, departmental staff, boards and
hardware along with the institutional network
committees. In 2014, User Services
that connects all town buildings. Key
supported 425 PCs and 206 laptops with 619
accomplishments this year included:
users; of those users, 70 were new. The
Technology Services Help Desk answered
In conjunction with Facilities Management,
1,659 Help Desk calls, of which over half
we requested and received funding for a data
were resolved on the same day. In addition,
center upgrade, including a full-room UPS, a
49 PCs were configured and installed, as well
new A/C unit capable of cooling the entire
as 73 new laptops, ToughBooks and tablets.
room, and a new generator to support the
upgrades and allow for future growth. The
Voice and Office Services
project at the end of 2014 is roughly 80%
Justine Diatelevi, Manager
complete.
This position is responsible for preparation of
-based budget,
Email Statistics:
overall operations management, policies and
Inbound Total 2,068,112
procedures, and town-wide technology
Blocked 1,019,252
acquisitions including contract administration.
Allowed 1,048,860
The Voice and Office Services position is also
Outbound Total Sent 374,564
responsible for posting Town Meeting
Blocked 2,464
General Government42
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
Minutes. Additionally, one of the principal
roles of this position is the support and accounts, Nichol also assists with the
administration of the Cisco Voice over IP Administration of ten (10) Departmental
phone and voicemail systems. This position social media accounts.
will be a support backup to the Webmaster
and is currently in training.
The Town has also begun to produce
short informational videos regarding
Town programs and initiatives. Videos
Administrative Assistant
are becoming a preferred medium in
Jennifer Nall
communication and engagement.
Jenn has been instrumental in streamlining the
onboarding process of new equipment
ordered by all Town departments. She has
In 2014 the Town began the process of
also been key in improving the processes
associated with obsolete and retired
enhance functionality, offer increased
equipment, including the automated
accessibility; and to provide for an
shredding of hard drives.
updated modern look and feel. In
December of 2014, the newly designed
FraminghamMa.gov site was launched.
Public Information Officer/Webmaster
Website Statistical Data
Nichol Figueiredo
110.5k visits
The Public Information Officer/Webmaster
200k page views
works directly with the Town Manager and
61k downloads
the Technology Services Department on all
communication initiatives for thetown, as
well as working with key Division Heads and
To further enhance communications the
community stakeholders. The PIO directs the
to
implementation of integrated communications
provide convenient access to local
strategies for the Town incorporating website
officials, news, events, and emergency
development, podcasts, media broadcasts,
alerts. To date, the application has had
written materials, social media trends and
over 600 downloads.
other applications.
In closing, the accomplishments documents in
this annual report could not have been
2014 Accomplishments
achieved without the commitment of every
Establishing a direct method of community
member of our talented, motivated and
engagement through social media.
innovated Technology Services staff. Once
again, I thank them for another year of hard
In April of 2014, the Town of
work and accomplishments.
Framingham Facebook page was
Respectfully submitted,
Also, in April of 2014 the Town of
Framingham Twitter page was launched;
and currently has 892 followers.
Director,
Technology Services
Statistical data and insights indicate that
Facebook and Social Media Posts are
reaching in the thousands.
General Government43
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
FM
ACILITIES ANAGEMENT
Memorial Building, Room 133| 508-532-5485 | building.services@framinghamma.gov
The Facilities Management Department, This project will address numerous
formerly known as Building Services, is infrastructure needs throughout many of our
primarily responsible for the maintenance and buildings and will implement energy control
day-to-day operations for multiple public measures. The Esco projects annual energy
facilities and parking lots/garage that are savings for the Town of Framingham will
owned by the Town of Framingham. We self-fund the energy investments, thus
currently oversee and maintain twelve Town creating an additional approach to project
Owned Buildings, the Waverly Street and implementation without straining the Town
Hollis Court commuter parking lots, Pearl
Street Garage, both the Centre & Downtown
Commons and parking meters located In conclusion, we have made great efforts to
throughout the downtown area. The improve the facilities that we are responsible
Department consists of eleven fulltime for and will continue to maintain all of our
employees, with an operating budget of 1.7 public facilities and grounds while being
million. fiscally prudent.
During this past fiscal year, we have merged I would like to thank all of the town of
our department with the Department of Framingham officials and departments
Capital Building Projects and have worked as including Parks & Recreation, Public works
a combined unit to better serve the Town.
This fiscal year the Facilities Management the cooperation and assisted guidance they
Department has begun the implementation of provided us throughout the year.
the long range plan which will enable the
department to oversee and evaluate all facility Finally and most importantly, I would to
management operations and allow us to acknowledge and thank my staff for their
provide administrative direction to ensure dedication, hard work and continued support
these activities and initiatives are consistent during this past year. Their individual and
combined efforts help us provide quality
fiscal objectives. service to the Town of Framingham.
Respectfully submitted,
James J. Paolini, Director of Capital Projects & Facilities Management
CBP
APITAL UILDING ROJECTS
Memorial Building, Room B14| 508-532-5485 | jjp@framinghamma.gov
In this past fiscal year, the Capital Building for the Green Communities initiatives. The
Projects Department has worked in a joining department has assisted in the Green
effort with Facilities Management to begin the Communities grant project designation. The
implementation of the 20 year long range town has designated the use of the majority of
plans. The department has continued to move the grants funds for the lighting project at the
Main Branch Library. This project will be
General Government44
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
implemented and combined with the ESCO The town has moved in awarding the designer
project that is to begin in 2015. selection to revitalize the Athenaeum Hall in
the Historical Saxonville Village. The Friends
The ESCO project will embark as the largest of Saxonville have been the driving force for
energy infrastructure replacement that the the halls preservation and these plans should
town has ever accomplished. This project will be executed in early spring of 2015. With the
completion of these plans, the design
foot print and the energy savings will self-
fund the project. restoration ready to pursue an appropriation
of the construction phase in the near future.
The Capital Building Projects and Facilities
Management Department continue to work as In closing, the Capital Building Projects
a cohesive unit to provide essential Department is pleased to announce the
fundamental building practices for current completion of the new Lexington Street
and future projects in Framingham. accessibility entrance at the Main Branch
Library which opened in September of 2014.
At the start of this fiscal year, the Department The Capital Projects Department has assisted
of Capital Projects has administered the the Library Building Committee in the
successful bidding and awarding of the completion of the project and would like to
construction for the New McAuliffe Library. thank them for their support. It was a
This aeronautically themed new building will pleasure working with each and everyone one
carry on the legacy of Christa McAuliffe for of you.
future generations and is anticipated to be
completed in December of 2015. This project Respectfully submitted,
James J. Paolini, Director of Capital Projects
reinvigorate the Nobscot corner of & Facilities Management
Framingham.
MS
EDIA ERVICES
Memorial B Rm B15| 508-532-5517 |government.channel@framinghamma.gov
The mission of The Government Channel is also to make the proceedings of local
to serve the community as a valued resource government more accessible to the public.
by providing timely news and events to
inform Framingham residents on town The Government Channel also carries regular
programs and services. We do this by live coverage
producing video coverage of public meetings, Meetings, Planning Board and Town Meeting.
development of original series, and displaying Monthly coverage of the Framingham
important town announcements on our Disability Commission and special coverage
municipal electronic bulletin board. of Board of Health are an important
component of the channel lineup that gives
The Government Channel is dedicated to residences instant access to Framingham
programming which supports the goals and government both on their cable system and
objectives of the various town departments, via the internet.
General Government45
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
The Government Channel can be viewed on The Government Channel through its
Comcast channel 99, RCN channel 13, and programming is compiling complete and
Verizon channel 42. Programming schedules accurate public records for the Town of
Framingham. All programming is available to
accessing the government channel portion of the public upon request; selectmen, planning,
the department directory or at: and town meetings are also available via
www.framinghamtv.com. streaming video on demand for Internet
viewing.
L
ICENSING
Memorial Building, Room 121| 508-532-5402 |licenses.permits@framinghamma.gov
The Licensing Office issued with the Board of Class III - 3
Junk/Old Metals/Second Hand License 18
the following categories of licenses and Entertainment License (Yearly) 33
permits. Entertainment License (One-day) 4
Sunday Entertainment License 16
Liquor License for Restaurants, Hotels, Clubs Carnival License - 2
and Retail Package Stores 84 Coin-Operated Machine License 13
Malt and Wine Farmer Brewery License -1 Pool Table License - 1
Farmer Winery License - 1 1
One-day Liquor License for events held at the 9
various function halls throughout town 63 Taxi Cab Company Permit 2
Common Victualer Restaurant License 147 Taxi Cab License - 44
- 7 Livery License 3
Lodging House License - 12
Class I, II, III Auto Dealers License.
New/Used/Junk Car Dealers Respectfully submitted,
Class I 6 Maryellen Rupp, Licensing Administrator
Class II 34
General Government46
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
FINANCE
CFO|TA|T/TC
HIEF INANCIAL FFICER OWN CCOUNTANT REASURERAX OLLECTOR
BA|P|RS
OARD OF SSESSORS URCHASING ETIREMENT YSTEM
CFO
HIEF INANCIAL FFICER
Memorial Building, Room 127 | 508-532-5425 | office.cfo@framinghamma.gov
The Office of the Chief Financial Officer has investment; and make this plan sustainable.
both financial and policy duties. It is staffed The FY15 budget, passed in May of 2014
by the Chief Financial Officer, Assistant Chief accomplished year one of this plan. The Town
Financial Officer and the Financial Analyst. continued advancements in both the pension
The Office administers Town finances with and OPEB unfunded liabilities. While Chapter
the assistance of three departments that have 70 aid continues to underfund education
direct responsibility for financial management mandates, the Town budget continues to
of Town government: the Assessing invest in Framingham School District
Department is responsible for the valuation of improvement, funding not only level services
real and personal property and the assessment but $2.1 million for district improvements.
of taxes against these parcels and accounts.
The Office of the Treasurer/Collector is The Long Range Forecast indicates that
responsible for the collection of all town expenditure growth still exceeds revenue
revenues, the investment of all revenues, and growth, but the trend is slowing due to cost
containment efforts. The Town must still live
Accounting Department maintains the within its means. Health insurance has been
transferred to the state Group Insurance
financial management information, processes commission, saving an estimated $18 million
Town-wide employee payroll, directs all audit over the next three years. This also reduces
activity and reviews compliance with internal
controls. Office is committed to responsible financial
management which is critical to the forward
The Office of the Chief Financial Officer is
.
progress of the Town
directly responsible for the development and
management of the annual operating and
The Finance Division has published and
capital budgets. The CFO is also required to
presented financial information in more
file a long term forecast for strategic planning
flexible decision-making formats and posted
these reports on the Town website.
Calendar year 2014 saw the beginning of a
three year budget model FY15-17. This
in purchasing a more interactive and dynamic
model will accomplish a number of Town-
financial software buying the capital module
wide policy and financial goals: set the levy
of Questica Budget. The FY17 budget will be
increase at 1.25%, half the allowable increase;
developed using this software.
moderate residential tax bills, maintain the
residential/ commercial tax burden shares at
The CFO would like to thank the Assistant
60/40%; fund our most important spending
CFO, Jennifer Pratt; Richard G. Howarth, Jr.
priorities; prepare for a major School building
and his staff in the Accounting Department,
47
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
William Naser and his staff in the Assessing Respectfully submitted,
Office, Carolyn Lyons and her staff in the
Office of the Treasurer/Collector, Amy Mary Ellen Kelley
Putney in the Purchasing Department, and Chief Financial Officer
Margaret Ottaviani our financial analyst.
These are dedicated financial professionals
who provide excellent stewardship over the
TA
OWN CCOUNTANT
Memorial Building, Room 205| 508-532-5410 |town.accountant@framinghamma.gov
The Office of the Town Accountant is Earnings: $3,220,979, Water Enterprise Fund
responsible for insuring that all expenditures Retained Earnings $4,325,300. These available
of the Town conform to the requirements of funds represent unrestricted surpluses that are
Massachusetts General Laws, Town Meeting available for appropriation by Town Meeting.
appropriations and grantors, and do not They are generated from positive operating
exceed Town Meeting appropriations or grant results in relation to the budget; that is, they
authorizations. The Office also accounts for are derived from annual receipts in excess of
all financial transactions of the Town budget estimates and expenditures less than
receipts, expenditures and payroll in the appropriations authorized by Town
conformance with generally accepted Meeting.
accounting principles and the Uniform
Municipal Accounting System promulgated by For Fiscal Year 2014, the Department
processed over 13,900 purchase orders,
Department of Revenue. It then makes this reviewed over 45,700 invoices and issued over
accounting information available to (1) the 17,700 accounts payable checks.
facilitate their management of program The top ten vendors paid during Fiscal 2014
budgets, (2) independent auditors who must are as follows:
opine on the financial condition of the Town;
(3) state and federal agencies for use in US Bank $76,452,735
generating financial information for program Blue Cross/Blue Shield 41,416,651
and policy development, and, (4) credit rating Framingham Retirement 11,273,629
Keefe Technical School 8,281,854
fiscal stability and creditworthiness and Durham School Services LP 5,381,853
Residents. J H Lynch & Sons 5,048,566
Accept Ed Collaborative 3,239,914
The June 30, 2014 (FY14) balance sheet was Albanese D & S Inc 2,890,583
submitted to the DOR on October 2, 2013, Defelice Corp 2,085,861
for certification of available funds. On Beta Group Inc 1,930,879
October 15, 2014 the DOR certified the
following amounts as available for I would like to thank all the departments who
appropriation: General Fund Free Cash: have assisted us during the past year.
$11,761,832, Sewer Enterprise Fund Retained
48
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
I would like to recognize the invaluable William Naser, Technology Services Director
efforts of the members of the staff, Assistant Carly Premo Melo and their staffs for their
Town Accountant Nancy Lomas, Payroll guidance and assistance during the past year.
Administrator Dawn Divito, Shirley Tibbert,
Nicole Towle, Lynn Martin, Louisa Caswell Your obedient servant
and Janine Ablondi. Richard G. Howarth, Jr.
Town Accountant
I would like to especially thank CFO Mary
Ellen Kelley, Assistant CFO Jennifer Pratt,
Prior Treasurer Steven Price, Current
Treasurer Carolyn Lyons, Chief Assessor
49
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
T/TC
REASURERAX OLLECTOR
Memorial Building, Room 109| 508-532-5430 |treasurer@framinghamma.gov
Carolyn Lyons, Treasurer/Collector
Cindi Natoli, Fiscal Supervisor
Rajni Sharma, Payroll Fiscal Supervisor
Ross Netherton, Office Coordinator
Daphney Bernier, Office Manager
Robin Nemeth, Administrative Assistant II
Sara Beth Jerome, Customer Service Representative
Fiscal Year 2014 has been a good but busy
bank rates remain low, we continue to
year in the Treasurer/Collectors Office. This
monitor the bank rates to maximize our
department has worked diligently to meet the
earnings
requirements of the laws, and the needs of all
the residents.
We are an office of eight employees that strive
Rating Service. This rating is the third highest
to provide the best customer service and
essential municipal service to our residents
BANs at MIG1 which is the highest rating for
and taxpayers. As always, I am indebted to my
short term borrowing instru
staff for the first-class job they do on my
states our strengths are the sizeable and
behalf as well as for the Town of
diverse tax base which is located on major
Framingham.
transportation routes, improved reserve levels
and a history of structurally balanced
Annual collection amounts and percentages
operations.
were as follows: real estate taxes collected
totaled $ 154,140,262.83 (98%) and personal
The Town issued a bond anticipation note
property taxes were $9,291,859.78 (99%).
(BAN) in 2014 , awarded to TD Securities, in
Excise tax collections totaled $5,850,834.50
the amount of $20,967.117, with a net interest
(88%). Excise tax is collected on a calendar-
rate (NIC) of .1747% including a premium
year basis, which is reflected in the lower
of $172,559.38
collection percentage. Tax title collections
were $1,440,547.17, we have continued to
The Town issued a bond for $20,974,000
work hard on the collection of delinquent
awarded to Raymond James and Associates.
taxes and to work with these residents in
The interest rate (TIC) was 2.855% including
resolving the issues they have faced which put
a premium of $172,559.38. Additionally, the
them into Tax Title. We have implemented
Town has financed $2,668,892 and $3,515,998
the use of credit/debit card swipe machines in
with an interest rate of 2% through the Mass
our office and continue to promote our web
Clean Water Trust.
based online biller and payment services in
the Tax Collectors Office, to improve
Per Town by-Law, the Treasurer reports the
customer service. Earnings on general fund
information regarding authorizeddebt which
investments for the year totaling $77,730.09
is included in the schedules following this
were slightly below budget. Even though the
report. The first schedule showswhat is
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
authorized and un-issued as of June 30, 2014. Department, CFO Office, Payroll and
The second schedule shows the debt issued Technology Services for all the help they have
and outstanding during Fiscal Year 2014. given us over this year.
I would like to thank my staff for their hard Respectfully,
work and professionalism. I would also like to Carolyn Lyons, Treasurer/Collector
thank the Accounting Department, Assessors
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
BA
OARD OF SSESSORS
Memorial Building, Room 101 | 508-532-5415 | assessing@framinghamma.gov
GENERAL SCOPE AND FUNCTION FISCAL YEAR 2014 Interim Year Value
The Department of the Board of Assessors is Adjustments
comprised of three appointed members, and
nine full time staff employees: Chief Assessor, Fiscal year 2014 was an Interim Year for the
Administrative Assessor, Office Manager, Town of Framingham.
four Field Assessors and two Customer
Service Representatives. The Assessing Department is required to do
the following during this type of reassessment
The Office of the Board of Assessors is a for this type of fiscal year:
value-based department. The Assessors are
primarily responsible for determining the full
Real Property - Review, analyze, and if
and fair cash value of all real and personal
necessary, adjust current value assessment
property within the municipality.
levels, using primary source data such as sales
within the town for residential properties,
Other duties of the Department include:
and sales and income and expense
administer motor vehicle excise tax, compile
information returns for commercial and
and submit the annual Tax Rate
industrial property. Review of secondary
Recapitulation to the Department of Revenue
source data is also used. Secondary sources
in conjunction with the Town Accountant,
are local builders, local real estate agents,
abate/exempt/ or defer taxes, defend
subscription services, and sale and
established values on abatement applications
assessment information from other towns or
and at Appellate Tax Board hearings, maintain
cities.
Personal Property Review, analyze, and
overlay reserve account (an account
adjust asset values based on Form of List
established to fund abatements, exemptions,
asset returns, and Department of Revenue
and unpaid taxes for the respective fiscal
recommended values depending on the
year).
property type.
Tax law intends for each taxpayer to pay an
This type of town valuation occurs for two
equitable share of the tax burden in
consecutive years. The third year in the cycle
proportion to the value of the property or
is known as a Triennial Certification year.
asset. This is known as ad valorem tax, or
Each municipality in the Commonwealth of
according to value tax.
Massachusetts has this same three year cycle;
however, towns are staggered per DOR
It is important to note that Assessors do not
schedule. Assessors review market
raise or lower taxes, nor do the Assessors set
information and adjust values according.
rate of taxation (tax rate). These
Consequently, one of the main duties of the
determinations are made with the assistance
Bureau of Local Assessment is to review and
of assessment values, but are decisions made
recertify each municipality's property values
outside of the scope of the Assessing
once every three years to ensure that values
Department.
are at full and fair market value, and uniform
and industry standards are meeting or
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
exceeding Department of Revenue assessment condition, replacement cost new, year
standards. purchased and asset depreciation schedule.
TAX RATE SUMMARY
residential properties are generally valued
The total amount to be raised through
and adjusted based upon market sales that
taxation (tax levy) is calculated after all other
occurred in calendar year 2012.
sources of revenue and total expenses for the
commercial & industrial properties are
town are known. The levy for fiscal year 2014
generally valued and adjusted based upon
was $170,290,441.94. The Department of
the following: market rental income, market
Revenue approved the following tax rates:
rental expense, market vacancy rates, and
$18.29 per 1000 of value for residential
area income capitalization rates in calendar
properties, and $40.92 per 1000 of value for
year 2012.
commercial, industrial and personal property
personal property is generally valued and
properties.
adjusted based upon: asset description,
Fiscal Year 2014 Classification Summary
CLASSIFICATION VALUATION TAX LEVY PERCENT
DOLLARS
CLASS 1 - 5,569,402,378 $101,864,369.49 59.82%
Residential
CLASS 2 - 0 0 0.00%
Open Space
CLASS 3 - 1,200,300,512 $49,116,296.95 28.84%
Commercial
CLASS 4 - 244,817,100 $10,017,915.73 5.88%
Industrial
CLASS5 - 227,073,797 $9,291,859.77 5.46%
Personal Property
TOTAL 7,241,593,787 $170,290,441.94 100.00%
Note: The total dollar amount needed to meet town spending was $280,881,394 for FY2014. The tax levy portion is
$170,290,441 or 61%. The other 39% of the amount needed is obtained through state reimbursements and
distributions, local receipts, free cash, and other revenue sources.
SUMMARY
Residential at $18.29/1000 Commercial/
Industrial/ersonal $40.92/1000
Real Estate
The real estate market in Framingham saw
stability in values in FY2014. Residential,
commercial and industrial values remained
Other items
stable, with minor overall class adjustments.
Motor Vehicle Excise Tax: 291,410,080 in
A public hearing was held on December 3,
value, $7,285,252 in tax dollars
2013 in which the Board of Selectman chose a
Real Estate Tax Exemptions granted:
dual tax rate with a tax shift away from the
321 applications, $227,813.00 in tax
residential base and onto the commercial,
dollars.
industrial, and personal tax base. The
Real Estate Tax Deferrals granted:
Department of Revenue then approved the
15 applications, $71,981.85 in tax dollars
following:
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
Property values, tax assessment maps, and
assessing department can be found on the
town website (www.framinghamma.gov)
Please feel free to call, email, or visit the office
if you have any questions regarding your
property value or the assessment process in
general.
Respectfully submitted,
William G. Naser, MAA
Chief Assessor
Town of Framingham
2014 Annual Town Report
P
URCHASING
Memorial Building, Room 123| 508-532-5405 |purchasing@framinghamma.gov
The Purchasing Department seeks to identify advertises larger procurement opportunities
the best overall value when expending public locally and in the Commonwealth of
funds for goods and services. The Massachusetts Central Register. The
Department ensures that purchases are made Department is currently staffed within the
in accordance with local bylaws and in Finance Division by Amy Putney,
compliance with procurement statutes of the Procurement Administrator and a part-time
Commonwealth. Purchasing has worked Procurement Administrative Assistant.
closely with Town and School departments to Jennifer Pratt, Assistant Chief Financial
produce invitation for bids for a multitude of Officer also serves as the Chief Procurement
projects ranging from improvements made to Officer.
Cushing Park to the purchase of a Fire
Pumper for the Fire Department to School In the coming year, the Purchasing
Department building upgrades and Department will continue to seek out the best
maintenance contracts. available pricing, including leveraging our
options and selectively participating in
Routine contracts were awarded for the purchasing consortia. The Purchasing
School Department lunch commodities (e.g., Department will continue to conduct due
bread, milk, other food supplies), for Parks & diligence on every major purchase in order to
Recreation landscaping materials, and for get the best value for taxpayer dollars.
various internal services, such as, elevator
maintenance and cleaning contracts.
Jennifer A. Pratt
The Purchasing Department posts all Assistant Chief Financial Officer
invitations for bid on the Town's website and Chief Procurement Officer
RS
ETIREMENT YSTEM
Memorial Building, Room B31| 508-532-5465 |reg@framinghamma.gov
The Framingham Retirement System is a Sovereign Bank and MMDT
member of the Massachusetts Contributory Pension Reserve Investment Trust
Retirement System, governed by Chapter 32 $ 243,613,104
of the Massachusetts General Laws, and is Total Assets on 12/31/2013
managed by a five member Retirement Board $ 243,815,884
which consists of:
Membership in the Retirement System:
Richard G. Howarth, Jr. Active members 1130
Town Accountant-Ex-officio Member Inactive members 270
Mary Ellen Kelley, CFO Retired members & beneficiaries 767
Selectmen Appointee Total Membership 2167
Peter J. Rovinelli -- Elected Member
Joseph A. Fonseca -- Elected Member Respectfully Submitted,
John W. White, Jr.--Board Member Appointee Laurie A. Lizak, Director
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
Ƭ
P| F| BH| IS
OLICE IRE OARD OF EALTH NSPECTIONAL ERVICES
PD
OLICE EPARTMENT
1 William H. Welch Way| 508-532-5906 |kmf@framinghamma.gov
A MESSAGE FROM CHIEF Without delay we began to examine,
strengthen, and promote collaborative
FERGUSON
relationships between our department and
the community we are entrusted to
protect and serve. Already having a
healthy relationship with Reverend Dr. J
Anthony Lloyd and the Greater
Framingham Community Church, we
worked with Reverend Lloyd, members of
his church, and key community
stakeholders to facilitate a panel
discussion with area police chiefs and
members of the African-American
community. This team also established a
Framingham Coming
2014 has been a challenging year for
police organizations nationally, regionally,
to exchange ideas and share stories
and locally. The fatal shootings and
around the violence and loss of life
related incidents in Ferguson, Cleveland,
around the country. This unity was to
New York, and elsewhere have put police
organizations and the results of their
actions front and center in the national
news. These incidents have uncovered
In the Department we will concentrate on
breaches in the relationships between
maintaining and expanding a work
local police and the communities they
environment that fosters healthy
serve; distrust exists between too many
relationships between officers. We will
police departments and too many
enhance lines of communication
communities. Trust between law
throughout the organization. We will
enforcement agencies and the people they
promote an atmosphere of mutual respect
serve is crucial in our society. It is one of
and support at all levels of the
the keys to the stability and strength of
organization. Officers who feel respected
our communities.
by their organizations will likely bring this
respect into their interactions with the
In Framingham we immediately began to
citizens in the community they serve
use these tragic and unfortunate incidents
as an opportunity to learn and grow.
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
As a law enforcement organization in the rights of all during police encounters.
Town of Framingham we will focus on Research and data collection are essential
enhancing our legitimacy and
strengthening our relationships with the in our organization and our community,
people we have sworn to protect and which policing methods are effective, and
serve. We will continue to institutionalize which ones may have unintended
community trust- building activities consequences.
throughout the agency. People will obey
the law when they believe that those As a law enforcement organization we
enforcing it have legitimate authority to were fortunate enough to be recently
police them. The public grants legitimacy funded by the Town to hire a crime
only to those whom they believe are analyst. Nicole Debonet started with the
acting in procedurally just ways. We will Framingham Police Department in
treat all people with dignity and respect, October, 2014 and her expertise has been
take the time to actively listen to people a valuable addition to us, enhancing our
during encounters, be objective and effectiveness and efficiency, and
transparent during decision-making, and strengthening our relationships with our
convey trustworthy motives. community partners.
We recognize that all people have As your law enforcement agency, we will
work to advance our technological
encounters. These preconceptions effect capacity and continually improve our
how one may react when dealing with social media outlets. Technology can
unfamiliar people or incidents. As a law enhance policing practices and improve
enforcement organization we will community trust and legitimacy.
continually train to alleviate implicit Improving current technologies and
biases, the biases people are not aware employing new technologies offers us
they have, at all levels of the organization. another opportunity to engage and
We will work to increase awareness and educate our communities on public safety
ensure respectful encounters inside our issues. This year we would not have
organization and within our communities. excelled in this area if it was not for the
support and guidance of our Director of
We will strive to adopt, implement, and Technology Services Carly Premo Melo,
clearly communicate policies that our Public Information Officer Nicole
represent our organizational and Figueiredo, and our Commander of
community values. All policies require Administrative Services Lieutenant
continual oversight, but the policy on Stephen Cronin. Additionally, we were
which the Framingham Police able to hire a Technology Manager for our
Department maintains the highest level of organization. In December, 2014 Daryl
evaluation and review is use of force. Our Valovcin started as our
policy on the use of force will be clearly Technology/Records Manager and his
stated, evidence-based, continually expertise has been beneficial to us in
reviewed and trained on, and transparent. attaining and enhancing our technological
goals.
We will continue to implement and
improve organizational accountability and The Framingham Police Department has
data collection methods as one means of been a community policing department
keeping people safe and protecting the for many years. Community policing is an
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
organizational philosophy that promotes support we have surveyed and interviewed
strategies that support the systematic use department employees, identified
of partnerships and problem-solving concerning organizational issues,
techniques to proactively address crime, disseminated survey results, conducted
disorder, and unhealthy quality of life focus groups to discuss and address
issues. We regularly engage in problem-issues, and have developed and
solving activities internally and with our implemented programs and initiatives to
community partners in response to enhance the organizational health of our
locations, people, and incidents of Department. We will continue to work in
concern. In 2014 we experienced a 13% this area and be guided by the famous
decrease in part one crimes in comparison
to 2013.
Sincerely,
During the year our officers and Chief Ken Ferguson
employees participated in approximately
forty community meetings and
Emergency Management
interventions throughout the town. Our
Framingham Emergency Management
success is an example of the importance
Agency (FrEMA) directs all emergency
of community policing and we will
management operations in the Town of
continue to grow and improve in this area.
Framingham. Emergency management is
Much of our effectiveness has been the
the preparedness, mitigation, response and
result of town and community initiatives
recovery of both naturally occurring
working in unison with the common goal
events like blizzards, ice storms,
of ensuring that Framingham is a safe and
hurricanes, flooding or earthquakes as well
health place to live, raise a family, work
as any man-made disasters such as
and visit.
chemical spills, fires, transportation events
and acts of terrorism. Framingham
Officer safety and wellness continue to be
Emergency Management has worked
a priority for our organization. The
extensively under its current structure to
wellness and safety of law enforcement
create planning groups, exercise response
officers is not only critical to themselves,
activities, secure funding from grants and
their peers, and our agency, but also to
state and federal sources and expand
public safety. The sustained health and
participation in this municipal function.
wellness of our people is directly related
to our success and effectiveness. Law
FrEMA, in concert with Framingham
enforcement officers deal with risk and
department of public works and the
tragedy on a regular basis. We recognize
Northeast Homeland Security Regional
that physical and psychological injuries
Advisory Council, also operates an
can reduce a law enforcement
emergency equipment cache located at
Framingham DPW. This cache is one of
only three in the State and will be used to
In 2014 we enlisted the assistance of
disperse equipment and supplies during
experts in the areas of exercise, nutrition,
emergencies. FrEMA, in conjunction
and organizational health. One of the
with state and federal authorities,
subject matter experts who continue to
prepares, administers and implements
assist us is Dr. Gerald Sweet, a highly
experienced police psychologist. Through
Emergency Management Plan) as well as
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
the federal mandated NIMSCAST. In Revenue
2007 the entire CEMP was rewritten and
The Framingham Police Department
printed; this is the first time since 1997.
generates monies through the issuance of
licenses and permits, administration fees
In 2010 Framingham also joined five
and fines from parking and traffic
other communities (Ashland, Natick,
citations. This revenue is not entered into
Holliston, Hopkinton and Sherborn) to
form the Metrowest Regional Emergency
general fund. Revenues are as follows:
Planning Committee.
Billable Activity FY12 FY13 FY14
In 2012 FrEMA took delivery of a brand
111F/Recovery $100 $46,065 $37,194
new mobile command post, this vehicle is
Alarms $69,320 $79,975 $59,643
outfitted with the latest technology for
Court Fines $103,446 $94,837 $99,265
crimes scenes, natural disasters and
planned events. The vehicle has a
Detail Admin Fee $141,658 $175,876 $120,031
conference room, 3 dispatch areas, hard
Finger Prints $1,710 $1,590 $1,150
wired telephones, weather station, 40 foot
boom with camera and specialized scene
Hackney Licenses $4,080 $2,165 $2,940
lighting. The vehicle is operated by a nine
M/V Fines $122,255 $87,525 $130,050
member emergency management strike
Marijuana Fines $3,400 $3,400 $2,200
team. Framingham will continue to be a
leader in the ever increasing role of
Misc. Revenues $7,909 $0 $8,400
emergency management in a post-911 era,
Parking Fines $220,637 $208,520 $213,255
roles and responsibilities are increasing
Permits to Carry $8,912 $12,812 $11,400
and the Town will need to recognize the
value of emergency preparedness.
Photos $25 $0 $27
Report Fees $8,962 $6,583 $8,105
The mobile command post was deployed
Subpoenas $38 $85 $51
several times in 2014 most notably during
the Boston Marathon.
Tow Fees $23,560 $25,877 $25,584
Cruiser Detail Fee $0 $50,180 $88,904
In 2013 FrEMA also began another
Liquor Server $0 $7,580 $0
innovative program Smart911, working
with a local company Rave. This program
Auction $0 $169 $3.80
gives citizens the ability to share
Non-Recur Rev $0 $374 $7,565
information that will be displayed on the
Total $716,012 $803,616 $815,768
dispatchers screen when the citizen dials
911. This service is free to the citizen and
can be accessed at www.smart911.com.
Auxiliary Police
The 20 dedicated men and women of the
The Director of FrEMA is Deputy Police
Framingham Auxiliary Police completed
Chief Steve Trask with 3 Asst. Emergency
another outstanding year of service for the
Mgt. Directors; Asst. Fire Chief John
community. For the past 72 years, the
Magri, Police Lt. Blaise Tersoni and Police
Auxiliary Police have been an active and
Lt. Mike Siaba
vital component of the Police
Department.
2014 Annual Town Report
Town of Framingham
The Auxiliary Police, under the guidance 2014. There are a significant number of
of Auxiliary Captain Marc Spigel, have a persons with a mental illness each month
well-defined training program in which that the Framingham officers recommend
officers attend an academy for reserve for diversion to a community based
police officers; and are trained in first mental health treatment. During 2014, 105
responder first aid and CPR/AED. unnecessary arrests were diverted by
Annually the Auxiliary Officers keep their Framingham JDP. A secondary outcome
skills and certification current with field
and in-service training. The result is a on-scene assessments is diversion from
professional Auxiliary Police Organization costly admissions to hospital E.R.s.
that stands ready to assist this department. Without immediate access to trained
clinicians, police officers often choose to
During the year, the Auxiliary Officers
direct the individual to the Framingham
volunteer countless hours of their time to
E.R. for an assessment (usually by
help make Framingham a better place to
ambulance). The 76 diversions from the
live and work.
Framingham E.R. resulted from the on-
scene JDP response. Research shows that
You can see some of their volunteer
having trained clinicians accompanying
efforts in action at community events
officers on calls involving individuals with
such as Boston Marathon, National Night
a mental illness, makes good fiscal sense.
out, World Cup Celebrations, Concerts on
the Green, charitable road races, and child
Animal Control Department
safety programs. As part of the
Animal Control Department
Framingham Emergency Management
50 Western Avenue
Agency, Auxiliary Police Officers provide
508-532-5870
assistance at the Emergency Operations
Fax 508-620-4872
Center and emergency shelters as needed,
Animal.control@framinghamma.gov
and are trained in the National Incident
Management System.
Staff:
Katherine J. MacKenzie, Director of
Jail Diversion Program
Animal Control, Massachusetts Municipal
The Framingham JDP program (operating
Animal Inspector
since 2003) partners their clinicians from
Advocates Inc. with officers from the
William C. Sage, Animal Control Officer,
Framingham Police Department. The
Massachusetts Municipal Animal
primary goal of the program is to re-direct
Inspector
appropriate non-violent offenders out of
the criminal justice system and into
Joseph R. Shepard, PT Animal Control
community and an appropriate mental
Officer, Massachusetts Municipal Animal
health/substance abuse treatment).
Inspector
.
There were 950 psychiatric assessments
referred to the Framingham JDP during
Town of Framingham
2014 Annual Town Report
The Framingham Animal Control Domestic mammals which come in
Department is staffed by 2 full-time and 1 contact with, or are otherwise exposed to
part-time Certified Animal Control the rabies virus must first be assessed to
Officers. The Animal Control Officers determine severity of risk. Depending on
provide service to the citizens of the vaccination status of the domestic
Framingham. The Animal Control mammal involved, it will be either
Officers care for the animals held by the quarantined or destroyed.
department 365 days a year. Animal
Control Officers work both in the field Any domestic mammal which bites a
and in the office, managing calls for human or another domestic mammal
service, complaints and inquiries. Animal must be quarantined for a period of ten
Control Officers prepare reports and days to determine the risk of rabies
appear in court as needed. The Animal transmission. The Animal Inspector must
Control Department does not employ ensure that all animals (wild or domestic)
office or kennel staff. In addition to which must be tested for rabies are
regular shifts, Animal Control Officers are captured and euthanized. The head must
available for after hour emergencies. be removed, packaged properly and
submitted to the State Rabies Lab for
Framingham Animal Control Officers testing.
work cooperatively with outside agencies
such as the Massachusetts Department of The Animal Control Officers fielded and
Fish and Wildlife, Massachusetts responded to more than 4,715 calls in
Department of Environmental Police, 2014. More than 673 calls regarding
Massachusetts Department of Agriculture, wildlife were addressed by the Officers.
Division of Animal Health, the The calls ranged from injured birds to
Massachusetts Society for the Prevention roaming coyotes. The officers provide a
of Cruelty to Animals and the Animal wealth of information and resources to
Rescue League of Boston. The the public regarding living with wildlife.
Massachusetts Department of Agriculture,
Division of Animal Health appoints the More than 1,250 calls regarding canines
municipal animal inspectors. The primary and 276 calls regarding felines were
duty of the Animal Inspector has recently fielded and responded to by the Animal
become rabies control in the domestic Control Officers.
animal population.
A total of over 2,530 calls for hearing
Municipal Animal Inspectors are also requests, quarantines, administrative calls,
responsible for livestock inspections and Police, Fire and Board of Health assists
may be called to assist with domestic were addressed by the Officers. These
animal disease quarantines in the event of numbers do not include requests made via
an outbreak. Livestock inspections are email. The majority of calls come directly
designed to get a good census of the to the Animal Control Department and
domestic animal population of the town, are answered live or by voice mail.
be sure that all of the animals appear to be Emergency calls are dispatched directly by
in good health and free from disease and the Framingham Police Dispatchers.
observe animal housing and ensure ample
food and water are supplied. Respectfully submitted,
Katherine J. MacKenzie
Director of Animal Control
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
FD
IRE EPARTMENT
10 Loring Drive| 508-532-5930 |gtd@framinghamma.gov
Chief Officers Gary T. Daugherty, Chief
John C. Magri, Assistant Chief
Fire Prevention Joseph C. Hicks, Fire Marshal
Randy S. Smith, Assistant Fire Marshal
Jerome Farias, Inspector
Richard Zontini, Inspector
Dana Haagensen, Fire Protection Engineer
Training Captain: Mark Leporati, Captain
Office Staff:
Mission Statement:
The Framingham Fire Department is an organization of dedicated professionals who are
committed to protecting the citizens of Framingham from loss of life and property caused
by the ravages of fire, and to respond in a quick and efficient manner to medical
emergencies. Through fire prevention education, our mission is to prevent disastrous
incidents from occurring and to minimize damage to life, property, and the environment. In
addition to fire suppression duties, this Department responds to medical emergencies,
hazardous material incidents, water problems, and other calls for assistance. The Fire
Prevention Division provides safety education, code enforcement, plan review, and
inspections. We are committed to delivering these services through proper staffing
strategically placed through the community and to do so in a cost effective manner.
Personnel/158:
Chief
1
1
Assistant Chief
Deputies
4
Fire Marshal 1
1
Assistant Fire Marshal
Training Officer 1
8
Captains
Lieutenants
24
108
Firefighters
The Framingham Fire Department
Civilians
9
experienced numerous changes in 2014
caused by the retirement of fourteen (14)
members, twelve (12) promotions, seven
(7) new hires and two (2) military
2014 Annual Town Report
Town of Framingham
deployments. The annual report of
the
Framingham Fire Department for the year Total Alarms:
ending December 31, 2014 is as follows: The Framingham Fire Department
responded to a total of 9,555 emergency
Retirements: calls in 2014.
Firefighter Michael Tucci
Firefighter Michael Eden
Emergency Responses 9,555
Firefighter Robert Delaney
Emergency Responses 9,555
Non-Emergency Responses 6,072
Lieutenant Peter Rovinelli
Non-Emergency Responses 6,072
Total Responses: 15,627
Firefighter Paul Antonio
Total Responses: 15,627
Firefighter Robert Moro
Firefighter Antonio Sebastiao
HIGHLIGHTS IN REVIEW:
Lieutenant John Ward
The Framingham Fire Department
Firefighter Scott Studley
provides Fire, Rescue and Emergency
Medical Services to those who live, work
Lieutenant Robert Foley
and travel through the community.
Firefighter Christopher Jones
Calendar year 2014 was another busy year
Captain Paul Barlow
for the Framingham Fire Department.
Firefighter Joseph Keefe
We responded to over 9,555 emergency 9-
Inspector Todd Young (resigned)
1-1 calls. In addition, the department
handled an excess of 6,000 additional calls
Military Deployments:
for non-emergent assistance and
Firefighter Stephanie Hurley
inspections.
Firefighter Chris Carvalho
th
January 17- Firefighters Luis Alvarez,
New Hires:
Guilherme Barroso, Matthew Brown,
Firefighter Joseph Curtis
Brendon Dobson and Remy Gassel
Firefighter Jose Campos
graduated from the Recruit Training
Firefighter Tyler Easson
Program at the Massachusetts Firefighting
Firefighter Jose Funes
Academy.
Firefighter Steven Jones
Firefighter Eder Martinez
th
February 19 The department
Firefighter Stephen Warren
responded to a barn collapse at Eastleigh
Farms where a number of cows were
Promotions:
trapped. The department successfully
Captain Brian Connolly
rescued at least 6 cows from under the
T/Captain Robert Jones
collapsed building. Unfortunately several
Lieutenant Ryan Sullivan
other animals were too seriously injured to
Lieutenant James Ahearn
survive the ordeal.
Lieutenant Jose Delgado
Lieutenant Robert Morrison
th
February 28 - Firefighters Stephanie
Lieutenant Chad Boylan
Grzelak, Roberto Lopez, Chad Sexton,
Lieutenant John Marston
Joel Sexton and Firefighter Mark Stefanini
P/Lieutenant Felix Torres
graduated from the Recruit Training
P/Lieutenant Paul King
Program at the Massachusetts Firefighting
P/Lieutenant Tim Campion
Academy.
Inspector Jerome Farias
2014 Annual Town Report
Town of Framingham
th
August 5 Department participated in
March 1st - The Guns and Hoses annual National Night Out which was held at
Hockey Tournament between the Fire and Cushing Park.
Police Departments resulted in the
th
Tournament Cup filling the vacant spot in September 11 - The department
the Fire Department Trophy Case created mustered at Cushing Park to again pay
homage to those who lost their lives in the
tragic events on September 11, 2001.
March 3, 2014 Fire Department took
th
delivery of a new 1500 gpm Pumper October 12 Lieutenant Brian Connolly
which was assigned to Engine Co. 1 was promoted to the rank of Captain.
located at the Route 9 station.
th
December 4- We received notification
th
April 15 Firefighter Jerome Farias was from Massachusetts Department of
appointed to the position of Fire Human Resources\Civil Service, that the
Inspector. department had met its hiring
requirements under the Beecher Consent
st
April 21 -We provided on-course Decree Ruling and we were released from
support for the Boston Marathon the consent. The department was under
Runners. Thankfully, the race was the consent for almost 40 years.
uneventful in comparison to the events During this past year, the Fire
that unfolded during the race in 2013. Department hired 7 new members in
2014.
th
April 25 The department began
th
carrying Narcan on the apparatus to be December 19 - Firefighters Jose Funes,
used when treating Heroin overdoses, Steven Jones, Eder Martinez and Stephen
thus becoming one of the first fire Warren graduated from the Recruit
departments in the state to do so. Training Program at the Massachusetts
Firefighting Academy.
st
June 1 Firefighters James Ahearn, Chad
Boylan, Jose Delgado, John Marston, We were successful in obtaining some
Robert Morrison and Kevin Sullivan were outside funding through grant awards
all promoted to the rank of Lieutenant. from the Federal Assistance to
Firefighters Grant Program,
th
June 13 - Firefighters Oscar Alvarez and Massachusetts Executive Office of Public
Edward Rokes graduated from the Recruit Safety and Massachusetts Department of
Training Program at the Massachusetts Fire Safety and will continue to seek
Firefighting Academy. additional outside revenue sources and
grants. Some of these grants are listed
th
July 10 We received the sad news that below:
recently r
had passed away.
SAFE-Student Awareness of Fire
Educations: $6,300.00 public
th
July 18- Firefighters James Galante and
safety education
Christopher Jack graduated from the
MDU-Mobile Decontamination
Recruit Training Program at the
Unit: $3,000.00: training and
Massachusetts Firefighting Academy.
maintenance of state De-Con Unit
Town of Framingham
2014 Annual Town Report
The department is fortunate to have are responsible for enforcing fire codes,
firefighters who serve in the Armed issuing permits, conducting inspections,
Services and the Town and Department testing fire protection systems, reviewing
provide assistance and support to the plans, investigating fire causes and
families of these military members when conducting fire safety presentations. The
they are deployed for active combat duty; fire prevention staff are active participants
many thanks to those who have served on and regularly attend training with the
our behalf. Massachusetts Department of Fire
Services, Massachusetts Fire Prevention
The operation of the Fire Department is Association and Massachusetts Chapter of
large and complex. We do more than International Arson Investigators the to
simply respond to fires, rescues and ensure a consistent and informed
medical emergencies. Because some of approach in conducting business.
the incidents we encounter are larger or
more technical than the resources readily The Fire Marshal is responsible for the
available to the fire department, we work day-to-day operation of the Fire
collaboratively with various departments Prevention Division. He is responsible
and agencies both in and outside the for conducting fire investigations and
town. Some of these collaborations coordinating activities between the
include: Framingham Police Department and the
responsibilities include fire safety
Unified Fire and Police Fire
presentations for students, citizens groups
Investigation Unit (FIU).
and group residences. The Marshal
Fire District #14 Regional
collaborates on a regular basis with other
Technical Rescue Operations.
town departments to assist in the planning
Fire District #14 Collaborative
Dive and Underwater Recovery
prevention responsibilities the Fire
Unit.
Marshal sits on the Traffic and Roadway
State Wide Hazardous Materials
Safety Committee and is a member of the
Response.
MassachusettsEmergency
and Interdisciplinary Community Support
Management Agency.
Team.
Regional Emergency Planning
Committee (REPC).
The Assistant Marshal fills in for the
Marshal in his absence and assists with his
With an uncertain economy, we will
responsibilities. The Assistant Marshal
continue to strive to be even more
handles all licensing matters such as
creative in the way services are delivered,
flammable storage, hazardous material
doing more with less while at the same
storage, underground storage tanks and
time maintaining the core mission of the
license-related occupancy inspections. He
department.
is responsible for fueling station fire
suppression acceptance tests and
:
DIVISION
inspections.
The Division of Fire Prevention is
comprised of the Fire Marshal, Assistant
Each of the two Fire Inspectors is
Fire Marshal, Fire Protection Engineer,
responsible for a geographical area of the
and two Fire Prevention Inspectors who
Town to conduct the numerous
Town of Framingham
2014 Annual Town Report
inspections required by state and local any of the continuing education hours
codes. They also inspect and test fire that our members are taking. It is being
protection systems for all new homes, recorded by the NREMT web site.
new and remodeled commercial buildings Massachusetts is only the second State to
and residential real estate sales to ensure merge with the requirements from the
compliance with the fire code. The NREMT. There has been some confusion
Inspectors work collaboratively with other on how Con Ed hours are being
town departments to investigate and categorized and we are working it through
handle complaints by citizens and other with the NREMT. It is a work in process.
town departments to help assure the
safety of the citizens residing, working and Framingham Fire Dept. instructed its
visiting Framingham. members on the use of Naloxone Auto
Injector for usage with Heroin Overdose.
The Fire Protection Engineer is Through a Grant from the State we have
responsible for reviewing and approving placed 2 sets of these auto injectors on all
all construction plans. He also advises of our apparatus.
and assists design professionals and
contractors with code interpretation, Tourniquets and clotting agents used in
compliance and acceptance testing. The major trauma incidents have been donated
Fire Protection Engineer also reviews and by the Boston Marathon association and
approves specialized permits such as placed on all the apparatus.
hazardous materials processing and
storage of flammable gases and solids. In FIRE Training
addition to assisting with department Massachusetts Fire Academy presented to
training in fire prevention and technical classes using computer simulators for
matters he represents and advises the Emergency Vehicle Operation and Fire /
owner on matters of fire protection and
public safety.
Presented our first New Fire
T:
Officer class for six newly
RAINING
Emergency Medical Services Training
appointed Lieutenants.
We are moving forward with the major
changes in EMS. The MASS Emergency
Hired 11 new Firefighters this
Medical Technician (MAEMT) has
year. Put them through our Basic
merged with the National Registry of
Skills 2 week course before they
Emergency Medical Technicians
(NREMT). MAEMT no longer records
2014 Annual Town Report
Town of Framingham
can attend the 9 week Mass Fire In addition to the regular duties of
Academy. maintaining and installing the fire alarm
and communication system, the Fire
Alarm Division was also responsible for
maintaining and repairing forty-four (44)
traffic signals, three (3) 4-way flashing
skills and procedures are needed
signals, twenty-six (26) school zone signals
when a Firefighter becomes
The
trapped and needs to be rescued.
traffic signals controlling Grant and Clark
We also use these skills when
Streets were removed. The following is a
rescuing Civilians trapped in a
breakdown of traffic signal repairs:
building on fire. With the use of
Thermal Imaging Cameras (TIC)
the process becomes quicker and68 calls for traffic signals not
more efficient, in the case ofworking;
multiple trapped Civilians and
Firefighters.
8 calls for signal heads turned;
Assisted Framingham. Police with
29 calls for re-lamping traffic
signals;
Presented a Trench Rescue Class
& Drill in conjunction &
123 calls for changing of time,
assistance with the DPW.
checking preemption, Opticom,
repair broken pedestrian buttons,
FIREALARM
repair knock downs, meetings
The Fire Alarm Division is responsible for
with contractors digging up roads
the general maintenance of traffic signals,
to mark underground pipes,
controls, the municipal fire alarm system,
meetings with contractors doing
master boxes, street boxes and
traffic signal improvements,
underground and aerial cable.
preventive maintenance and
investigations.
Nine (9) new master boxes were added in
2014. We now have a total of 928 boxes.
12 traffic signals knocked-down in
motor vehicle accidents: 8 were
The Fire Alarm Division is responsible for
reported to the Police
the general maintenance of traffic signals,
Department, 4 were hit and run.
controls, the municipal fire alarm system,
The Fire Department is
master boxes, street boxes and
responsible for the cost of
underground and aerial cable.
replacing these knockdowns.
Nine (9) new master boxes were added in
114 calls for school zone signals
2014. We now have a total of 928 boxes
not working properly that required
in service in strategic locations throughout
time adjustments, new lamps and
Framingham. Of the 928 boxes, 563 are
new clock installations. This also
master boxes that protect individual
included time adjustments made at
properties, and 356 are street boxes.
the beginning and the end of the
school year.
2014 Annual Town Report
Town of Framingham
The Division installed approximately Total of 82 plan reviews
2,545 feet of new fire alarm cable for new
master boxes and replacement of Total of 105 fire alarm inspections
deteriorated cable.
The following new master boxes were added in
67 pole transfers for Verizon were 2014:
completed.
Box # Location
The Fire Alarm Division worked jointly
5231 35 Frederick Street
with Fire Prevention in reviewing all fire
5234 47 Frederick Street
alarm plans submitted to the Department.
487 24 Blandin Avenue
In addition, the Division attended
1623 1292 Worcester Road
meetings with contractors for new interior
3321 22 Waverly Street
fire alarm installations and master box
543 15 Park Street
locations. Both Fire Alarm and Fire
518 74 Concord Street
Prevention worked together to perform
748 137 Newbury Street
interior fire alarm system inspections in
747 740 Cochituate Road
new and existing buildings.
Total of 82 meetings
:
EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES
American Medical Response (AMR) continues to provide Emergency Medical Services
(EMS) to the Town of Framingham. Currently AMR is contracted to provide three
Advanced Life Support (ALS) Paramedic level ambulances. Framingham has experienced a
steady rise in medical calls as we responded to 6,774 calls for medical assistance in 2014.
AMR provides Basic and Advanced Life Support training to Framingham Fire personnel at
no additional cost to the Town of Framingham.
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors Save Lives
I would like to thank the Board of
Selectmen, Town Manager, Town Meeting
Members and Committees and the
residents for the continued support that
has been given to the Fire Department.
Respectfully Submitted,
Gary T. Daugherty, Sr., Chief
Framingham Fire Department
2014 Annual Town Report
Town of Framingham
FHD
RAMINGHAM EALTH EPARTMENT
Memorial Building, Room 221| 508-532-5470 |health@framinghamma.gov
The Health Department staff is comprised needed community based public health
of one (1) Full time Director of Public programs.
Health, one Full time Deputy Director of
The Board of Health consists of three (3)
Public Health, 1 Full time Chief
members that are appointed for three (3)
Environmental Health Officer, four (4)
year consecutive terms by the Town
fulltime Sanitarians, three (3) part time
Manager and the Board of Selectmen.
Sanitarians, one (1) full time Public Health
Nurse, one (1) Administrative Assistant,
The Health Department conducts
and one (1) Office Manager.
numerous mandated inspections
throughout the year according to local and
The addition of the full time Sanitarian
state mandates. These inspections include
was in response to the ever increasing
but are not limited to, food
demands of the department to provide
establishments, housing, body art
inspections, write policy, and enforce
establishments, tanning establishments
other regulatory programs including but
swimming pools whirlpools, beach testing,
not limited to, Food, Housing, Pre-Rental,
Bottled water regulations, Biotechnology
Body Art, Pools, Camps, Wastewater,
regulations, Recreational Camps, Title 5
Wells, and, Emergency Preparedness. In
(onsite waste water) plan review and field
addition, the addition of this position will
inspections, tobacco control, 21 E
allow the Director and Deputy Director
hazardous waste inspections, animal
of Public Health to purse town specific
permitting, South Middlesex Opportunity
and regional based Community Health
Council (SMOC) group home and hotel
Assessments (CHA) program
and motel inspections.
development, Community Health
Improvement Plan (CHIP) development
On occasion, the Health Department
and implementation, Strategic Planning,
must hold show cause administrative
and other programs that require oversight.
hearings and prepare cases for resolution
The completion of the CHA, CHIP and
in District Court. In 2014 Fifty-one (51)
Strategic Plan will help position the
food complaints and Two-Hundred
Department to apply for national
Twenty-Four (224) housing complaints
accreditation and related grants. The
were investigated. There were a total of
Director continues work with department
1,346 inspections performed in 2014. That
and municipal staff in pursing and
represents an average of approximately
applying for needed grants and academic
336 inspections per inspector. Orders to
internship opportunities.
correct, letters of no violation, and/or
letters of abatement are issued for all
Another focus of the Director of Public
complaints.
Health is fostering and developing needed
inter-departmental programs aimed at
bringing coordinated municipal services to
the community, while engaging various
community stakeholders in addressing
2014 Annual Town Report
Town of Framingham
An additional facet of the Health remediation work and best available
technology required to address various
investigation, including, but not limited to, environmental health concerns.
solid waste, dust, odors, noises,
In 2014 the Health Department drafted
rodents/vector control and general
and implemented a Tobacco and other
neighborhood conditions.
Nicotine Delivery Products regulation to
The town hired a Licensed Site address the respective ongoing and
Professional (LSP) as its environmental potential community needs. As part of
site assessment officer, to study onsite this regulation, the minimum purchasing
hazardous waste site conditions at the age for tobacco products was increased to
Framingham General Chemical 21.Additional regulatory and educational
Corporation, Mary Dennison Park, and programs in the planning phase include a
other hazardous waste sites in town. Pre-Construction Rodent Abatement
Through the work of this employee, the regulation, Hazardous Material
town was able to advocate for additional Registration, Food Establishment Person
onsite environmental assessment activities in Charge (PIC) training, Swimming Pool
to be conducted in order to ensure that Certificated Pool Operator refresher
sufficient data is garnered to assure that training, Choke Safe training, Tanning
optimal assessment of onsite conditions Establishment Operator training, Body
are made. This will help assess the level of Art Establishment Operator training, and
treatment, additional monitoring and bodyworks regulations.
remediation that is needed to address
The Health Department worked in
onsite contamination. The LSP, also
conjunction with the East Middlesex
assists the Health Department, Town
Mosquito Control Project (EMMCP) in
Manager and the Economic Development
planning larvicide, adulticide, aerial
Department with ongoing 21E sites
applications, and surveillance activity
assessments in town in order to determine
throughout the town. There were 14
current site conditions, assess needed
2014 Annual Town Report
Town of Framingham
mosquitos tested for West Nile Virus The Health Department was also the
(WNV) found in Framingham, but there recipient of the Prevention and Wellness
were surrounding communities that did Trust Fund (PWTF) Grant. The PWTF
test positive for WNV in their pools. This grant will earns the Health Department
year there were 0 cases of Eastern Equine over $140k per year for the next three
Encephalitis (EEE) Virus found in years. The PWTF is a collaborative of
Framingham. As the result of the WNV four municipal health departments
and EEE the town applied larvicide to (Hudson, Northborough, Marlborough,
catch basins in order to control the and Framingham) and many community
emergence of these viruses and adjust stakeholders known as the MetroWest
plans accordingly to maintain Partnership (MWP). As one of only eight
comprehensive intervention, education (8) grantees, the MWP will be at the
and surveillance programs. forefront of National Prevention efforts
in Asthma, Hypertension, Elder Falls, and
The Health Department reviews
Tobacco Use Cessation.
numerous Planning Department Site plans
in conjunction with other municipal The Health Department in conjunction
department including but not limited to with the Fire, Police, Building and various
Fire, Conservation. Police, Building and municipal officials, conduct monthly
Economic and Community Development general nuisance surveys of areas
Department. The Health Department neighborhoods in order to address the
reviews these plans and provides concern of area residents regarding traffic,
comments regarding hazardous waste quality of housing stock and general
containment, noise, odor mitigation, the nuisance conditions. These
need for Food Establishment permitting,
Title V - onsite waste water (review) and communication channels establishment
complete streets. with area residents via scheduled
neighborhood community health
The Town of Framingham,
meetings. If necessary enforcement
Northborough, Marlborough and Hudson
actions include but not limited to, non-
Planning Departments, Public Works and
criminal ticketing and court complaints
Health Departments partner in the
are initiated to ensure compliance with
regional Mass in Motion and Complete
local nuisance regulations and state health
Streets grant initiative. These initiatives
building codes.
are aimed at increasing physical activity,
healthy dinning and access to walking and Public Health Nursing Services 2014:
bike paths with scheduled improvements
Nursing Hours are 8:30 5 Monday
to streets and sidewalks in order to
through Friday with clinic hours daily
improve transportation and pedestrian
8:30-9:30am, 4-5 pm (last patient seen at
mobility. These initiatives have been
4:45).
deemed to be crucial to the development
of needed programs and interventions
Nursing Services include the following:
that have been identified in the
MetroWest Regional CHA which include
but are not limited to, transportation and
childhood, adult, public and school
prevention of obesity.
required.
-borne Illness Investigation
Town of Framingham
2014 Annual Town Report
Influenza: Approximately 2500 influenza,
Pneumonia, Hepatitis, Tetanus) pneumonia and adult whooping
nicable Disease Investigationcough/tetanus vaccine doses were
(Prevention/Control/Containment/Restodispensed in 2014. Framingham scheduled
ration) its first flu clinic in October for family and
school age children. This clinic was
new arrivals) extremely successful. The Public Health
Nurse partners with School Health and
Tuberculosis cases and general oversight Medical Reserve Corps for influenza
of Latent TB infected individuals. clinics.
Clinics
Camp Inspections: The nurse works with
the Inspectional Division and supports
reviews
camps inspections with a review of staff,
junior staff and camper forms for their
health lodges/stations)
health history and immunization
requirements. The Nurse also inspects the
Health Lodges for compliance with injury,
and vaccinations.
first aid and reporting requirements of
camper illness or injury.
Reserve Corps
Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) The
Immunizations: Approximately 4,000
Framingham MRC operates under the
doses of vaccine were given at clinics,
administration of the Board of Health and
office visits, high-risk/outbreak control
is a civilian volunteer group of local
settings and employee health. The Health
medical and non-medical residents who
Department utilizes the Massachusetts
are trained and ready to respond to
Immunization Information System; MIIS;
emergencies in the community. The
an on-line registry system helpful in
MRC uses MA Responds; a statewide
vaccination tracking for individuals as well
online registration system, for volunteer
as stock, orders and inventory
database and messaging management. As
maintenance for the department.
part of the emergency preparedness
funding requirements, MRC volunteers
Communicable Disease: The Public
and Board of Health Staff took part in
Health Nurse provides disease
drills related to emergency preparedness,
investigation, surveillance and case
shelter management and helped staff all
management with early and vital
interventions for all communicable
Districts/Region: The Framingham MRC
diseases per 105 CMR 300.000. There
is part of health and Homeland Security
were 553 confirmed, suspect or probable
Region 4A. MRC volunteers work under
cases of reportable diseases representing a
the direction of local health and safety
17.4% increase from 2013. The Nurse
officials, and in collaboration with other
uses MAVEN; Massachusetts Department
local emergency response programs.
of Public Health Virtual Epidemiological
National: Framingham is a sentinel
Network: an immediate electronic
community for the CDC (Center for
reporting network. Some diseases, such as
Disease Control) for Emergency
Lyme Disease, is not infections but the
Preparedness and response.
disease is tracked for
Town of Framingham
2014 Annual Town Report
IS
NSPECTIONAL ERVICES
Memorial Building, Room 203| 508-532-5500 |building.dept@framinghamma.gov
STAFF: Michael A. Tusino, Director James Murphy, Local Inspector
Fred Bray, Deputy Commissioner Mark Shahood, Plumbing-Gas Inspector
Ed Hicks, Electrical Inspector Mark Hughes, Plans Examiner
Suellen Seta, Sign Officer Dave Keniry, Nuisance Officer
Paul L.M. Kelley, Code Enforcement Michael McCarthy, Code Enforcement
Scott Parker, Local Inspector Joan Stephenson, Code Enforcement
Joanne Panarelli, Code Enforcement Danielly Morais-Fonseca, Admin Asst.
Mary Tiziani, Office Manager
FY 2014 Operating Budget: $970,386.00 Calendar 2014 Fees Collected: $2,619,636
For 2014 the Inspectors, Administrators increase of fees by over $1 Million. As
and Code Enforcement Inspectors within indicated above fee collection for the year
the Inspectional Services Department was $2,619,636.
have had a very active year providing
quality customer service and effective The office staff processed 3057 Building
solutions toward resolving citizen Permits, 2294 Plumbing & Gas Permits,
concerns. and 1919 Electrical Permits as well as the
general administrative day to day duties.
The focus of the Department continues to Our Plans Examiner processed over 2800
be the pursuit of the highest quality of plans and documents.
public service by responding to concerns
as they arise, to follow up on previous The Plumbing-Gas Inspector and
concerns, maintain a record of property Electrical Inspector averaged 10 to 15
activities reviewed by inspectors and inspections per day and also responded to
investigators and be responsive to an average of 1-2 after hour calls per week
consumer protection. from the Fire and/or Police Department.
The mission of the Building Department The two Building Inspectors averaged 12-
is to provide knowledge and service 15 inspections per day each and also
regarding local, state, and federal codes conducted over 100 Liquor License
st
and standards in a manner which supports inspections from November 1 thru
st
our commitment to the safety of our December 31. Both inspectors
residents and to the integrity of the responded to an average of 2-3 after hour
department. We willingly participate in calls per week from the Fire and/or Police
programs of continuing education to keep Departments.
our staff informed of the latest technology
and requirements within the building Code Enforcement inspectors worked on
trades industry as well as customer service 869 cases of which more than 70%
and computer literacy. involved housing. The report illustrates
that the inspectors addressed 5 illegal
The year of 2014 was a record year with rooming houses, 49 illegal apartments and
regard to permit activity. I refer to the monitored 78 foreclosed properties. We
attached 5 year report which reflects an
Town of Framingham
2014 Annual Town Report
also received a CDBG funded grant for
$60,000 for code enforcement activities.
Sign permitting and enforcement were at
record levels for 2014. 59 illegal signs
were brought into compliance by the Sign
Officer and 306 new signs were permitted
in strict accordance with the Sign By-law.
I would like to thank all the Town of
Framingham officials, and departments
that we have worked with during the
course of the year. We at the Building
Department appreciate the knowledge and
professionalism exhibited town wide.
In closing, I extend a special THANK
YOU to the entire Building Department
staff whom I have truly appreciated
working with during this past year. Our
group worked extremely hard to handle
the increase in work this year without the
help of additional staff.
Respectfully submitted,
Michael A. Tusino
Michael A. Tusino, CBO
Director/Building Commissioner
The following is a list permit activities for
the calendar year of 2014 with a Five Year
Activity Summary:
Town of Framingham
2014 Annual Town Report
WM
EIGHTS AND EASURES
Memorial Building, Room 221| 508-532-5470 |health@framinghamma.gov
This was an improvement over the
In compliance with Section 34,
previous years and shows that our
Chapter 98, General Laws of the
education and inspection program is
Commonwealth, I am submitting my
working. The Department investigated
annual report of the Department of
38 consumer complaints during the
Weights & Measures for the year
year.
ending December 31, 2014
2015 will mark the One Hundredth
The Weights & Measures Department
year of the National Conferences on
is required by state statute to inspect all
Weights & Measures. The Town of
weighing and measuring devices in the
Framingham is a member. During this
Town of Framingham each calendar
time, Massachusetts has NOT missed a
year. In 2014, the Department
single conference.
inspected 1835 weighing and measures
devices, including scanning audits.
I want to thank Mr. Michael A. Tusino,
The Department collected $49,322 in
the Director/Building Commissioner,
inspection and sealing fees during
the town's part time Weights & Measures
2014. This surpasses the revenue for
Inspector, Edward R. Gentili, and the
2013. The Department issued 20 civil
Office Manager of Inspectional Services,
citations and 19 late fee violations in
Mary T. Tiziani and her staff for all
calendar year 2014, for the following:
their help and assistance.
pricing errors (scanning), & unsealed
gasoline meters. The total violations
Respectfully Submitted,
and late fees amounted to $7770 for
the calendar year of 2014. The non-
Edward R. Seidler
criminal average fine was $341. The
Sealer of Weights & Measures
Department had NO cases in
Framingham District Court (criminal)
for overcharging consumers.
During 2014 the department 2014
saved consumers and businesses in
Framingham well into the thousands
of dollars by conducting both
mandated and spot inspections. This is
in addition to the fees and fines
collected for the town. Errors were
found and corrected which resulted
in sufficient savings to consumers.
The Department checked 8600 items
in local retail stores to ensure that they
scanned correctly. The Department
found that 95.5% were priced
correctly, 1% was underpriced and
3.2% was overpriced.
2014 Annual Town Report
Town of Framingham
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
DP
EPARTMENT OF UBLIC WORKS
Admin. Offices - Memorial Building, R 203| 508-532-5600 |public.works@framinghamma.gov
Peter Sellers, Director508-532-5600
Paul G. Barden, Deputy Director ofPublic Works508-532-6053
William R. Sedewitz, Chief Engineer508-532-6012
Jeremy Marsette, Deputy Director of Administrative Services508-532-6092
Blake Lukis, Director of Water and Wastewater508-532-6052
Daniel S. Nau, Director of Highway & Solid Waste508-532-6032
Fred J. Davies, Director of Fleet, Facilities & Communications508-532-6073
Robert D. McArthur, Conservation Administrator508-532-5462
Diane M. Conner, Director of Administration & Finance508-532-5611
ENGINEERING AND large collection of irreplaceable paper
TRANSPORTATION DIVISION plans and documents.
The Engineering and Transportation
In 2014, more than 6,000 linear feet of
Division is responsible for the planning,
water, wastewater and stormwater mains
design and construction of capital
were installed or replaced. Locations
roadway and utility infrastructure projects,
included Bethany Road, Concord Street,
maintaining compliance with various State
Herbert Street, Irving Street, Mellen
& Federal programs such as National
Street, Nevins Drive, School Street, Speen
Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
Street, Waverly Street, Wickford Road,
(NPDES) Phase II stormwater, managing
and Winthrop Street. The work included
rerouting a 102 year old partially collapsed
Trench Opening Permit programs,
vitreous clay sewer main that was located
reviewing development and
under two commercial buildings. The
redevelopment plans to ensure roadway
pipe, located off Waverly Street, serviced
and utili
approximately 500 homes and businesses
construction standards, and inspecting
and was in urgent need of replacement.
modifications and expansions to the
roadway, water, sewer and stormwater
Work also included the demolition of a
networks.
more than eighty year old 300,000 gallon
steel water tank located off Edmands
The Division also provides technical
Road. A replacement tank of the same
expertise to the operational divisions of
size was constructed and is scheduled to
the Public Works Department, other
be filled and tested in early 2015. This is
Town Departments, various Boards,
one of two tanks that service the Beebe
Committees, and Commissions, maintains
pressure zone in the northwest corner of
an extensive Geographical Information
the Town.
System (GIS) and is the custodian of a
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
The Engineering Division oversaw Worcester Road sewer pump station,
roadway and transportation improvement water and sewer improvements along the
projects such as the Waverly Street Main Street and Union Avenue corridor,
crosswalk, Edmands Road Traffic and water improvements on Speen Street
Calming, Water Street/Central Street and Cochituate Road. The Division also
Retaining Wall Replacement and Roadway coordinated with NStar to advance a
Improvements, Mellen Street/Winthrop major upgrade to the electrical
Street Roadway Reconstruction, and the infrastructure in the Downtown.
Concord/A/School Streets Intersection
Improvements Project. The last project Transportation project design work
includes new roadway, sidewalks, drainage included the Coburnville Area Roadway
improvements, curb realignment and two restoration project which will provide for
new traffic signals designed to improve new roadway surface, restored and new
pedestrian and overall safety of the sidewalks, and other roadway amenities in
intersection. Deck and joint repairs were the residential area surrounding Coburn
also made to the Central Street Bridge Street. The design projects also include
near Edgell Road. This work significantly the Union Avenue Road Improvements
extended the expected life of the bridge at project which is being advanced with the
a cost far less than that of a full bridge possibility of MassDOT funding under
replacement. the Transportation Improvement Project
program. Designs were also completed
The Division also coordinated with the for Winch/Millwood Traffic Calming,
Massachusetts Department of Riverpath Drive Roadway reconstruction,
Transportation (MassDOT) to advance Elm Street Weston Aqueduct Pedestrian
several construction projects, the largest Crossing and Traffic Signal upgrades at
involving the Reconstruction of Route the Bishop Street/Waverly Street/Beaver
126 (Concord Street) in the downtown Street intersections. There was also
area. This construction project started in coordination with MassDOT on the
2014 and is expected to continue into Hollis Street Culvert Replacement project.
2016. It will include roadway resurfacing,
new sidewalks and crosswalks, traffic
The Engineering Division continued to
signals, street lighting, street trees, and
advance programmatic issues centric to
landscaped areas. The Engineering
the Townsystem.
Division also worked with MassDOT to
The Illicit Discharge Detection and
advance or complete additional
Implementation (IDDE) Plan was
construction projects such as the
updated. The Division also continued
Cochituate Rail Trail, Route 9 Bridge over
water quality monitoring and sampling
the Reservoir, Wickford Road Bridge
outfalls
replacement and the Winter Street Bridge
and investigated ten potential illicit
over the railroad. In late 2014, work also
discharges and addressed four activities
began on the Central Street Bridge in
that had potential to impact stormwater
Saxonville.
runoff. The DPW undertook several
public education events throughout 2014.
Multiple design projects were also
Preparations continued for the anticipated
advanced or completed. Utility project
release of a new NPDES stormwater
designs included sewer capacity
permit including submitting extensive
improvements downstream of the
comments on the most draft permit.
Technology Park, elimination of the
Town of Framingham
2014 Annual Town Report
The Division continued to provide Town HIGHWAY MANAGEMENT
support by updating the GIS system to PROGRAM
capture the amount of construction work
The Highway Division is responsible for
completed. In 2014 this included nine
capital projects with water, sewer,
roadway and sidewalk infrastructure
drainage and/or roadway improvements.
including: pavement markings, granite and
Also, the Division implemented
bituminous curbing, street and regulatory
improvements to the GIS system that
signage, stormwater utilities, traffic
included linking over 2,500 scanned
islands, and public shade trees.
electronic documents to the GIS asset
management system. The Division also
Stormwater Management
began the development of a revised and
The Stormwater Management System
expanded
consists of more than 200 miles of surface
website. This included interactive search
and subsurface drainage systems, 12,000
tools, links to live data, and updated aerial
catch basin and manhole structures, and
photography.
more than 900 drainage outfalls. 2014
construction projects completed by Town
Lastly, the Division reviewed 348 plan
and contracted personnel included the
submittals received either directly or
installation and repair of 1,010 linear feet
routed to Public Works from the Building
of new drain line on Salem End Road,
Department, Planning Board, Zoning
Charles Street, and Pershing Ave., and the
Board of Appeals or the Board of
repair of 93 drainage structures. 7,200
catch basins were cleaned and 52,308
Street Opening Permits and 413 Trench
linear feet of drainpipe was videoed and
Opening Permits. In addition to the plan
cleaned. The Division continues the
review and permits processed by the
practice of monthly inspections in a
Department, considerable resources were
proactive drainage structure maintenance
expanded on large private developments
program.
undertaken in 2014. For example, the
Danforth Green Planned Unit
The Division is responsible for
Development (PUD) currently under
maintaining, inspecting and operating the
construction off Riverpath Drive includes
ille flood levee system,
the construction of private water
which consists of 2,550 feet of earth dikes,
distribution, sewer collection and
1,340 feet of concrete flood walls, 1,000
pumping, stormwater collection and
feet of channel realignment, a pumping
discharge, roadways, and off-site
station, interior drainage, and a vehicular
infrastructure improvements to support
flood gate.
approximately 330 new residences. The
Engineering Division inspects the
In order to maintain compliance with the
construction of these large developments
as well as the hundreds of smaller
(EPA) NPDES Phase II Stormwater
commercial projects.
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
Permit, the Highway Division made a removal of sand and debris from the
vigorous year-long effort to clean all of
the catch basins utilizing both Town remains an operational priority each year.
crews and contracted services, to remove
Pavement Management
silt, sand, and debris from approximately
The 2014 construction projects included
8,500 catch basins last year. Over 1,000
the replacement or upgrade of roadway
tons of catch basin debris was removed
elements and appurtenances so that both
from catch basins and hauled to an
regulatory guidelines and directives
accepting facility by Town equipment and
continued to be adhered to and visual
personnel. The storm drain cleaning
enhancements could be made. New
program has continued to produce a
pavement markings, street signs,
significant repair list as the inspection
sidewalks, granite and bituminous curbing,
process progresses. The Beaver Dam
wheelchair ramps and curb-cut control
Brook and Hop Brook continue to be
measures were addressed during
significant operational challenges for the
construction.
Division as even modest rain events may
cause the brooks to surcharge at the many
The 2014 road program performed road
culvert headwalls in both South
reconstruction on 18.5 center lane miles
Framingham and the Gregory Road and
of roadways in the Town. The Division
McAdams areas of North Framingham.
continued to integrate and manage the use
For this reason the Division has installed
of specialized contracted equipment with
automated monitoring sensors that alert
in-house resources. The development of
staff to high water levels. The deficiencies
this program has led to greater cost
in the stormwater systems throughout the
control, quality control, and accountability
Town are a major cause of unscheduled
while performing repair work on defective
overtime and emergency repair cost
roadways. The strategy and design behind
incurred by the Town.
this program had drawn the attention of
other large communities in the
In an effort to minimize the amount of
Commonwealth. In addition, the Division
sand entering and further diminishing the
responded to emergency repairs,
capacity of the system, the Division has
preventive maintenance, and filled over
continued strict control practices for the
12,000 potholes in 2014. The Division
use of de-icing materials during the winter
also maintains and replaces defective
months. In addition, an aggressive and
guardrails.
comprehensive post-winter street and
sidewalk cleaning program is performed
Winter Storm Management
annually to remove as much sand as
The Highway Division is responsible for
possible from the streets and thereby
the provision of a safe automotive and
minimizing the opportunity for
pedestrian environment both during and
accumulation in the drainage system.
after winter storm events. This effort
involves the plowing and treating of 550
The Division performs a comprehensive
lane miles of public roadway, 37 municipal
town wide street cleaning routine as well
parking facilities, 90 miles of sidewalks
as overnight sweeping in the streets and
and public pathways, 215 crosswalks, 188
sidewalks of the commercial areas to
cul-de-sacs, 11 school paths, and 31
minimize the entry of materials into the
school crossing-guard stations and student
drainage system and to provide a cleaner
drop-off areas. Snow and ice operations
environment in the downtown area. The
2014 Annual Town Report
Town of Framingham
are among the most important of management practices and public
responsibilities charged to the education campaigns. The Town of
Department of Public Works. No activity Framingham was named a Tree City USA
rd
performed by a Town entity encompasses again in 2014 for the 23 consecutive year.
more uncontrollable factors, nor has a The Division also plans an annual Arbor
greater impact on the community than Day celebration in which several private
does that of the proper handling of snow contractors donate their time. This year
and ice events. Those factors include the event was held at the Historic Town
weather, the amount of snowfall, rate of Common. The Division planted 43 trees
snowfall, duration of the storm, and type this year including the London Plane
of precipitation. Not only do these factors Trees along Edgell Road during the
have to be considered, their impact on Annual Arbor Day celebration.
resources and costs, including manpower,
equipment, and materials must be The Highway Division oversees the
understood and appropriately managed.
that is permitted annually by the
Massachusetts Department of Agricultural
GIS with an Incident Command Structure Resources Pesticide Bureau. This
to manage each event. In addition, the program allows the Department to apply
department installed global positioning best management practices for the control
units (GPS) into plowing equipment. The of curbside vegetation that otherwise
purpose of this strategic effort is to would grow uncontrollably and require
provide a high level of accountability the commitment of substantial and
while applying the appropriate amount of sustained labor to control unwanted
resources to each storm event. In order to growth.
be fiscally responsible, the Department
has developed a strategy to focus on main A primary and recurring function of this
roads with greater speeds and higher operating group is the statutory
traffic volumes, while utilizing a measured requirement to maintain minimum
response on secondary roads, making clearance over the 550 lane mile roadway
them safe and passable. All Town network. In 2014, 38 miles of pruning
spreader trucks are equipped with a were completed to provide clearance and
computerized distribution system that
operates according to ground speed, thus while providing a great public amenity to
ensuring the uniform distribution of de-the Town, require routine maintenance so
icing materials. that they do not also become a public
liability. The tree crew performs monthly
Tree Warden & Forestry Management
surveys to determine hazardous trees and
diseases and takes corrective action to
The Highway Division is responsible for
minimize damage and response during
the maintenance management of the
severe weather events. The Division is
responsible for the cleanup and removal
trees and for the development of a Public
of storm debris.
Shade Tree program for the community.
The purpose of this program is to
The Tree Warden conducts frequent
promote, preserve, and enhance the shade
hazardous tree assessments, prescribes
tree environment of the community
treatment, oversees removals, and
through the application of best
participates in public hearings on issues
2014 Annual Town Report
Town of Framingham
related to trees within the right of way. and or replaced hundreds of regulatory
The Department routinely responds to and advisory signs either by direction of
the Board of Selectmen, the Traffic
service. During 2014 Forestry Roadway Safety Committee, or as required
Management personnel removed 256 through routine maintenance practices.
dead, diseased, and/or hazardous street
trees and responded to 64 emergency
removals as a result of tree failure
SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT
impacting roads or other public
PROGRAM
properties.
The Solid Waste Division is responsible
Traffic Systems Management
preserve and protect public health and the
The Traffic Systems section of the
environment. The Division oversees
Highway Division manages the
curbside solid waste and recycling
maintenance, fabrication, and placement
programs along with containerized
collections at condominiums and
street signage, steel-beam safety guardrail,
municipal facilities. In addition, the
installation of new and annual
maintenance of existing pavement
on Mt. Wayte Ave. and Yard Waste Drop-
markings, and the work zone safety
Off Site played an integral part in enabling
program for Division operations. This
the Division to deliver a wide range of
section is responsible for advance
recycling services to the public. The
planning of traffic management
Division manages the collection of refuse
coordination for roadway construction, as
and recycling from 19,508 dwelling units
well as for the implementation of street-
weekly, averaging more than 3,900
by-
curbside collection stops and 90,000
to efficiently advance the street sweeping
pounds per day collected curbside.
program and snow removal operations.
The pre-planning for traffic management
During the winter of 2014, the Division
during the construction season maximizes
was faced with many challenges as a result
the efficient production of the work, and
of a series of winter storms delivering
also contributes to a safe environment for
heavy amounts of snowfall in a short
the motorists and the work crews alike.
period of time. With little time to rest
between events, the Division stood strong
The Traffic Systems section managed the
through the unfavorable conditions
annual contract and divisional painting of
striving to deliver the expected level of
83 miles of yellow centerline, 93 miles of
service on both plow routes and curbside
white edge line, over 715 crosswalks, 771
collection routes. The sense of pride to
stop bars, and 362 arrows throughout the
execute operations through the elements
Town.
was contagious and displayed department
wide.
In addition, the Division responded to
Police, Fire and other safety road related
Since the initial Recycling cart distribution
issues requiring emergency traffic
in 2011, many home owners have
management, as well as planned events
requested to enlarge the capacity of their
such as the Boston Marathon and World
cart. In 2014, the Division satisfied 180
Cup Soccer. The Division also installed
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
service requests from residents to to dispose of polystyrene trays.
exchange their cart to the larger size. The Participating schools are McCarthy
cart radio frequency identification system Elementary, Woodrow Wilson
(RFID) allows the Town to track what Elementary and Brophy Elementary
address carts are assigned to, how often School.
and what time of day they are serviced.
The Division continues to sell natural
This continues to be a valuable tool for
mulch and compost to homeowners
the Town to maintain contractor
and landscapers at a reduced rate. This
accountability ensuring the proper delivery
helped to reduce disposal cost, raised
of service has been performed.
additional revenues for the Town, and
created a full circle recycling loop. In
The Division works aggressively to
addition, these materials have been
research and develop new techniques in
used by other Town Departments
managing waste that cut costs, improve
which has helped to reduce costs.
The Division has provided these
recycling programs. Some of these
materials for various Town projects
approaches included:
such as at the Resource Recovery
Center itself, as a soil amendment in
Developing Phase II of the Divisions
athletics fields, landscaping at town-
Transition to Automation (Curbside
owned buildings and other various
Solid Waste and Recycling Collection).
projects around Town. These
Phase II includes modernizing the way
materials are provided at no cost to
curbside refuse is collected shifting
other Town Departments allowing
from a dangerous manual collection
them significant financial savings.
style (driver and collector) to a more
efficient and safe fully automated style
Public Education; 2014 continued
(driver and mechanical lifting device
themed monthly events and programs.
with carts on the curb). This will
These events and services are offered
enable the department to acquire the
to residents at no additional cost and
necessary equipment to assume the
included Fall Household Hazardous
duties of curbside recycling program
Waste Day, which drew close to 500
once the five year contract expires in
vehicles, Earth Day Celebration, and
2016. Additionally, this presents the
the town-wide Green-Up Day. The
Town with an extraordinary
most popular events continue to be
opportunity to save in projected
the Shred Fest (secure confidential
contract costs while continuing to
document shredding), and the Free
deliver exceptional customer service.
Electronics Day. Both events are held
Continuing to facilitate competitive
at no additional charge to the
bidding on solid waste contracts to
residents. Furthermore, the
save money and improve services
electronics take back day has allowed
The attainment of waste reduction
the Town to donate 300 pounds of
grants from the Massachusetts
non-perishable food items to United
Department of Environmental
Way Tri-County Food Pantry located
Protection (MassDEP).
in Framingham as participating
Monitor school recycling programs
residents are encouraged to make a
that use reusable trays and silverware
donation. This has also helped the
in their cafeterias eliminating the need
Town to properly recycle and dispose
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
of thousands of pounds of discarded the Massachusetts Water Resources
electronics. Authority (MWRA) and is subsequently
distributed throughout the Town by
means of a complicated system of pumps,
Division employees have conducted
pipes, valves, and reservoirs. The Water
multiple tours of the facility
Department program provides for the
promoting the recycling program.
maintenance and repair to the water
distribution infrastructure that includes:
The Resource Recovery Center (RRC)
250 miles of pipe, 17,000 service
located on Mount Wayte Ave. has
connections, 2,000 hydrants, 4,800 gate
continued the tradition of providing
valves, 22,000 meters, 4 pumping stations,
quality service to residents. In 2014 the
3 booster stations, and 6 above ground
division had robust sticker sales issuing
water tanks having a storage capacity of
6,725 permits to residents providing
nearly 9 million gallons.
access to the solid waste and recycling
services offered at the facility. The
The Wastewater Department is
center continues to provide excellent
responsible for the collection and
customer service at reduced costs to the
transport of 5-10 million gallons of
residents. Through fees collected for
sewage each day. A significant portion of
divisional services and marketing of the
wastewater flow during peak periods is
recyclables during 2014, $210,428.61 was
infiltration and inflow (I/I) from sources
generated for the General Fund.
such as leaking pipes and sump pump
discharges during wet weather. Sewage is
In 2014, the Town continued to enjoy the
conveyed from town systems to the
successes derived by making it easier for
MWRA, which is charged with the
residents to recycle. In addition to the
transport and treatment of sewerage from
hazardous and hard to manage wastes
its forty-three member communities. The
collected at the RRC, the center collected
1,000 tons of recyclables. Curbside
miles of gravity mains, 18 miles of force
recyclables collected totaled 5,098 tons.
mains, 44 pump stations, 6,600 manholes,
and over 40 miles of cross-country sewer-
WATER AND WASTEWATER
line easements.
MANAGEMENT PROGRAM
The Water and Wastewater Program is
al improvement
responsible for the provision of a drinking
programs have been substantially under-
water supply, a fire suppression service,
funded in recent decades, and, as a
and a sewer collection service to the
consequence, the critical infrastructure has
70,000 residents of the community that it
experienced ever increasing incidents of
serves.
failure. The system continued to grow and
expand over time, but the funding for the
The Water Department is responsible for
aging and expanding infrastructure did not
the distribution of a public potable water
keep pace with capital needs. As a
supply and for the provision of fire
consequence, the Division was historically
suppression service to the 17,000
engaged solely in performing unscheduled
residential and commercial accounts
maintenance and was unable to devote
within the community. The average daily
resources to perform critical maintenance
water demand of nearly seven million
to the system. This is underscored by the
gallons per day (mgd) is purchased from
'
issuance of an Administrative Consent
Town of Framingham
2014 Annual Town Report
Order (ACO) and Notice of years from 50 to 44 as part of its capital
Noncompliance by the Massachusetts program.
Department of Environmental Protection
(MADEP) during March 2007. The ACO In recent years, the Department of Public
requires the Town to undertake major Works has developed a professional and
sewer construction and rehabilitation knowledgeable workforce at all levels and
projects over several years with the disciplines. This progression has provided
primary focus of alleviating reoccurring an opportunity to identify and fully carry
sanitary sewer overflows, a violation of out capital projects of limited scope from
State and Federal law. The last specifically design through construction using Public
identified project from the ACO was Works staff. This practice not only
completed on schedule before the end of provides the Town with a significant cost
2013. The ACO included several other savings over contracting for these
requirements including increased staffing services, but is used as a tool for
levels, major equipment purchases, continually training our employees.
implementation of a SCADA system to Unfortunately, there is a significant
remotely monitor and control pumping turnover in personnel, which leaves DPW
stations and strict reporting requirements. understaffed at many times.
The Department is
The aforementioned construction
of the Sump Pump Elimination Plan,
activities were in addition to the
which will likely result in additional
excavations required by department staff
enforcement action.
to repair over 200 water system failures
and 140 sewer system failures during the
The Department also faces the continuing
course of the year. Additionally, the Water
challenges of managing a second
and Wastewater Division responded to
Administrative Order originally issued by
nearly 2,000 first response calls when a
the Massachusetts Water Resources
customer was in need of immediate
Authority in 2003. The MWRA
assistance. The Wastewater Division,
Settlement Agreement limits the level of
performed video inspection of over
sulfide that the Town is authorized to
118,000 linear feet of sewer pipe whereby
discharge to the MWRA system through
the condition of the sewer was
operational efforts. Sulfide generation can
documented using a camera unit, which
cause odor and corrosion problems in
was remotely controlled and traveled
sewers, which sometimes can be
through the pipe. The inspection process
catastrophic. Activities which the
revealed areas of the system that have
Wastewater Department performs to
actual or potential problems that may
mitigate the generation of sulfide include:
require repair or replacement.
chemical dosing at selected wastewater
Twice each year the Water Department
pumping stations, targeted collection
collects drinking water samples from
system cleaning and inspection, and
fifteen homes, which are subsequently
enforcement of grease interceptor
analyzed for their lead content. The U.S.
requirements at food establishments. A
Environmental Protection Agency has set
major cause of sulfide is the wastewater
the action level for lead in drinking water
detention time associated with the large
at 15 parts per billion (ppb), the level
number of pumping stations and miles of
which triggers corrective actions to be
associated sewer force main piping. The
undertaken by the water supplier. The
Department has reduced the number of
results of the sampling program have
pumping stations during the past three
2014 Annual Town Report
Town of Framingham
successfully met that goal once again (Building Permits, Planning Board
during 2014 as they have for the past Permits, and Zoning Board of
several years. Appeals Permits)
The Water Department also performs
Held 25 public meetings to discuss
approximately 900 bacteriological tests
project applications, land
annually to ensure the quality and
management efforts, and public
education efforts
The Town maintained continuous
Reviewed 33 and permitted 32
compliance throughout the year with the
Notices of Intent applications
with 1 denial due to split vote
standards related to bacteria testing (Total
Coliform Rule).
Reviewed 2 Abbreviated Notices
of Resource Area Delineation and
permitted 1
Conservation Commission
Reviewed 23 and permitted 23
The Conservation Commission is
Requests for Determination of
administered by the Conservation and
Applicability applications
Open Space Division of the Department
of Public Works and is responsible for
Issued 9 Emergency Certifications
implementing local, state, and federal
Performed numerous site visits
wetland laws, managing over 400 acres of
and inspections to gain first-hand
conservation land, and engaging the
information of on-site conditions
public in conservation efforts.
and verify wetland delineations.
The Conservation Division is responsible
The Commission continued to oversee
for reviewing all proposed and on-going
active projects from prior years. It issued:
municipal, private, commercial, and
industrial projects to determine if they fall
5 Amended Orders of Conditions
under the jurisdiction of local, state, and
for project changes
federal wetland laws. Conservation staff
conducts site inspections, attends
1 Permit Extension
pertinent meetings and represents the
19 Certificates of Compliance
Commission in legal matters. Staff
advises and provides technical expertise to
7 Enforcement Orders and
the Conservation Commission and other
numerous Notices of Violation
town departments to assist with the
2.Stewardship Achievements: The
protection of the environment. Other
Framingham Conservation
duties include: managing conservation
land and conservation restrictions owned
continued to maintain
by the Town; overseeing the Framingham
Conservation Lands by cutting
stewardship program; directing the aquatic
back vegetation that had
management program, and providing
overgrown onto scenic trails, and
education and outreach to residents.
cleaned up debris and litter. The
1.Wetlands Protection Achievements:
Stewards also informed staff of
any issues with Conservation
Reviewed, for jurisdictional
Land.
relevance, all applications for 190
inter-departmental reviews
2014 Annual Town Report
Town of Framingham
Bose Corporation provided numerous 6.Administrative Achievements:
volunteers for projects town-wide, The Conservation Commission
including a crew that removed two truck-works closely with DPW, Parks
loads of miscellaneous debris from Cedar and Recreation Dept., Planning
Swamp. Board, Building Dept., and
Communityand Economic
3.Land Management: The
Developmentto ensure
Conservation Division started its
compliance with state and local
first ever seasonal land
wetland laws. Conservation
management crew with three
Division staff work closely with
seasonal employees paid for by the
several local and statewide
Town and three from a youth
organizations such as Sudbury
program. The Seasonal
Valley Trustees, New England
Conservation Crew performed
Wildflower Society, Bay Circuit
projects including trail clearing
Trail Alliance, SuAsCo, River
and widening at Arthur-Morency
Stewardship Council,
Woods, the Carol Getchell Trail,
Massachusetts Department of
and at Cedar Swamp. Some
Conservation and Recreation,
redundant trails were removed at
Massachusetts Department of
Arthur-Morency. They conducted
Fisheries and Wildlife,
hazard tree removal and invasive
Massachusetts Association of
plant management at Macomber
Conservation Commissioners, the
Reservation and Arthur-Morency.
MassachusettsSociety of
They worked on a drainage project
MunicipalConservation
at Wittenborg Woods.
Professionals,and the
4.Open Space Planning: The
Massachusetts Department of
Division worked with other
Environmental Protection, to
departments to create a team, to
protect the Town's wetland
identify and prioritize open space
resource areas and open space.
parcels. The Open Space Plan
was reviewed and finalized by the
team. Grants were applied for and
FLEET, FACILITIES AND
secured for land acquisition and
COMMUNICATIONS PROGRAM
ecological restoration.
The Fleet, Facilities and Communications
5.EducationalAchievements:
program continues to provide a critical
The Conservation Division
support service to various public works
participated in an Earth Day
programs and also provides vehicle and
event, conducted an interpretive
equipment maintenance support to other
hike for Riverfest and was
agencies within the Town. This year, Fleet
involved in the greater Riverfest
Services provided maintenance services
planning. The staff additionally
for the School Grounds program
conducted an interpretive hike at
equipment. This Program is accountable
Macomber Reservation.
for: the development and implementation
of professional fleet management
Staff also participated in professional
standards and practices, the design and
development workshops and trainings
procurement of all public works vehicles
provided by state and nonprofit
and equipment, and for providing
organizations.
Town of Framingham
2014 Annual Town Report
standardized maintenance management Hoisting Engineer Refresher Course that
practices for all public works facilities is mandated by the state of Massachusetts.
including water, wastewater and pumping
stations. The Division is also charged with This past winter was the eighth winter
the technical management of the season that a temporary site setup has
telecommunications network and thereby been utilized by the technicians who are
provides a critical service component to assigned to be on the north side of Town
the Departmenduring plowing events. This continues to
Management Response Plan. work very well in providing the
technicians a more functional area to work
The Fleet, Facilities, and Communications so repairs can be performed more
support to the Department through the of service time that would occur returning
provision of fully operational equipment, to the Western Avenue facility.
facilities and telecommunications that
together, ensure the effective and efficient In 2014, Fleet Services wrote 1,829 repair
delivery of essential services to the orders, performed 477 scheduled
residents of the community. These vital preventative maintenance services and
services include the provision of public completed 206 Commonwealth of
safety, public works, and public utility Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles
functions for the residents of Enhanced Emissions State Inspections.
Framingham.
The Division also managed the acquisition
The Town continues to be one of three & distribution of more than 273,000
major equipment and materials cache sites gallons of gasoline & diesel fuel.
for the Northeast Homeland Security
Regional Advisory Council (NERAC). Facility Maintenance
Fleet Management Again this year, the Department of
In 2014 the Division researched, designed Vapor Recovery Certification program
and prepared specifications for the was performed for the fuel system at
procurement of the following specialized Western Avenue along with the annual
equipment: two 40,000 GVW cab & calibration of the fuel pumps, which was
chassis w/dump body, sanders & plows,
one 15,000 GVW 3/4 CY dump truck Weights & Measurers. The oil/water
w/plow, one 15,000 GVW cab & chassis separators at Western Avenue and the Mt.
w/rack body w/plow, 3.5 CY loader Wayte recycling facility continue to be
w/plow, five 11,000 GVW cab & chassis inspected quarterly and pumped out in
w/service bodies & plows, and six compliance with DEP regulations, at a
automated refuse packers. minimum, annually, or sooner, if needed.
The Division continued to perform full
Technician training sessions continued load tests on the emergency/standby
both in-house and off site which included generators at both the Western Avenue
Ford training to help keep technicians and Henry Street facilities. This was done
current with the ever changing industry. quarterly to insure proper operation along
The Parts Manager, along with other Fleet with a semi-annual maintenance program.
Services personnel, has completed the
2014 Annual Town Report
Town of Framingham
The annual fire sprinkler inspection was Town Departments with information in a
performed at the Western Avenue facility. timely and accurate manner.
The Department of Public Works has Water and sewer utility billings for the
begun the installation of an Town of Framingham are also managed
emergency/SCADA communications by this Division. Most residential
tower. This will substantially improve the customers in Framingham are billed
communications throughout the Town for quarterly for water and sewer usage, while
Police, Fire and DPW. This project will be commercial, industrial and high volume
completed in the spring of 2015. customers are billed monthly. Staff issued
72,092 bills in 2014. Bill payers have the
The Spill Prevention Control and option to pay their bills on line; currently
Countermeasure Plans (SPCCP) there are 1,300 customers enrolled in this
continued to be reviewed annually to payment program. Division staff also
insure accuracy. This plan is necessary so administers the Discount and Utility
there are guidelines in place to respond to Abatement Policies on behalf of the
any type of uncontrolled release of Board of Selectmen.
hazardous materials. This plan also
Members of the department oversee the
stations and the Recycle and Disposal Drain Layer License renewal process; the
Facility. hiring of staff; the processing of personnel
related activities for the 150 members of
Fleet Services continued to do a monthly the Public Works Department as well as
inspection of the Watson Place flood the processing of thousands of vendor
station and performed any necessary invoices. Division personnel facilitate the
repairs. recording of fuel inventory activity and
generate internal invoices for Town
departments who draw fuel from pumps
ADMINISTRATION & FINANCE located at Western Avenue.
The Administration and Finance Division The Division is also responsible for the
provides for the consolidation of all management of grant funding, as well as
administrative and financial functions federal reimbursement activities that are
within the Department of Public Works. related to storm emergencies and other
The Division strives to enhance the events. There were no declared
efficiency and accuracy of financial and emergencies in 2014.
administrative functions within the
Department through the use of
professional practices.
The core mission of the Division of
Administration & Finance is to provide
service and technical support to the major
Divisions within the Department of
Public Works:
Town of Framingham 2014 Annual Town Report
PB|C&ED|MAP
LANNING OARD OMMUNITY CONOMIC EVELOPMENT ETROPOLITAN REALANNING
CMWRTA|FHA
OUNCIL ETROEST EGIONAL RANSIT UTHORITY RAMINGHAM OUSING UTHOR
PB
LANNING OARD
Memorial Building, Room B37| 508-532-5450 |planning.board@framinghamma.gov
During the Planning Board (FPB) review
8 Public Way Access Permits;
process, the FPB works with both
2 Scenic Roadway Modifications;
applicants and the public to shape
13 Approval Not Required; and
developments that minimize negative
2 applications for Subdivision or
impacts to the community while
Modification to a Subdivision.
accommodating new growth. Such
growth provides employment
It is important to note:
opportunities and a growing tax base to
The average permitting time from
the Town.
the date an application was stamped
in with the Town Clerk to the
THE BOARD
The five current Planning Board members
days (median: 73/77 days);
are Stephanie A. Mercandetti, Christine A.
The average permitting time from
Long, Lewis Colten, Thomas F. Mahoney,
the date of the first public hearing to
and Victor A. Ortiz. On April 10, 2014,
the Planning Board reorganized and
days (median: 56.5 days);
elected Stephanie A. Mercandetti to the
Average/median number of public
position of Chair, Christine A. Long to
hearings held for approved projects:
serve as Vice-Chair, and Lewis Colten as
4.375 public hearings (median: 3.5
Clerk. The Planning Board Office is
public hearings); and
comprised of: Amanda L. Loomis,
Average/median number of public
Planning Board Administrator, Alexander
hearings held for approved projects,
C. Mello, Associate Program Planner, and
not including public hearings
Sean P. Dugan, Administrative Assistant.
continued without testimony:
3.625public hearings (median: 3
MAJOR PLANNING PROJECT
public hearings).
FACTS
Total number of jobs created by
In the 2014 calendar year, the Planning
approved projects:
Board held 42 meetings and granted 32
Construction jobs: 703-723
project decisions. The Planning Board
Full-time jobs: 709-1109
considered applications for the following
Part-time jobs: 296-696
types of projects:
21 Site Plan Reviews;
Projectdevelopment cost:
34 Special Permits; $127,835,431.00
4 Chapter 43D Expedited
Permitting Projects;
To review all projects permitted by the
1 Extension to a previously
Planning Board, please reference the
approved Decision;
Corridor Corporate Center and
Technology Park
5.1.4.2 Complete Streets: Adopt
Additional highlights of the 2014 calendar
Complete Streets Policy, Complete
year include the following:
Street Designation, Chapter 90I,
Apply for Complete Street Grant
ZONING BY-LAW AMENDMENTS
Funding
The following zoning amendments were
5.2.4 HousingStrategies
adopted at the Annual and Special Fall
Affordable Housing By-law
Town Meeting and approved by the
Publish andimplement
Attorney General. The zoning
Development Handbook
amendments were as follows:
COLLABORATED WORK
Annual Town Meeting April 29, 2014
EFFORTS
Article 26: Agriculture Preservation
LocallyGrown: Preserving
R
Development (a new Section IV.S.)
Agricultural Lands in the Suburbs:
Article 27: Open Space Cluster
In January 2014, the Planning Board
Development (a new Section IV.T.)
worked with Massachusetts Audubon
Article 44: Amendment FloodplainSociety and the Sudbury Valley
Districts (amendment to SectionTrustees to present on alternative
III.H.)options of development and
preservation of open space and
Fall Special Town Meeting October agricultural properties. The goal of
21, 2014 the workshop was to present
programs and strategies to help
Article 8: Amendment to the
working farm remain in use.
Framingham Zoning By-law: Phase
Metropolitan Planning Organization
R
One Recodification
(MPO): Complete Streets Workshop:
Article 9: Moderate Slope
In September 2014, the Planning
Requirements (amendment to Section
Board co-
IV.G.3.e)
workshop to assist in the collection of
information for the proposed 2015
MASTER PLAN IMPLEMENTATION
Framingham Bicycle Plan.
The Planning Board will present the status
MetroWest Moves: Through the
R
of the Framingham Master Land Use Plan
Massin Motion/Community
at the 2015 Annual Town Meeting. The
Transformation Grant, the Town of
Annual Town Meeting status report shall
Framingham worked in collaboration
provide an update on the work items
with the communities of Hudson,
completed or to be added to the Planning
Marlborough, and Northborough to
Master Land Use Plan. Work initiatives
from the Master Land Use Plan to be
communities.
worked on in 2015 include:
Open Space & Recreation Plan,
R
5.1.1 Comprehensive Revision to
update
Town Land Use Regulations
Transit Oriented Development
R
5.1.2.3 Target Areas on Corridors
Central Business District: Worked in
Identified for Rezoning: Golden
collaboration with Community &
Triangle, South Framingham, and
Economic Development and MAPC
to develop new zoning for the Central ADMINISTRATION
Business District. The Planning Board continued to improve
Development Handbook: Worked inits efforts in public outreach and the
R
partnership with Town departmentssharing of information through the
to develop an efficient and
informative review of projects.Facebook page. The Planning Board has
Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan: Abeen working to ensure all projects
R
collective effort between Communitycurrently under review and archived
& Economic Development, the
Department of Public Works, andwebpage for easy accessibility.
Planning Board to develop a plan for
future bicycle and pedestrian-wayTo learn more about the activity of the
planning.Planning Board and see the full report,
NyanzaGrant: Community &
R
Economic Development, the
Conservation Commission, and the www.framinghamma.gov
Planning Board apply for a Nyanza
Grant to assist the Town in obtaining Respectfully submitted,
a Conservation Restriction along the Stephanie A. Mercandetti, Chair
Sudbury River near the Town Centre
CEDD
OMMUNITY AND CONOMIC EVELOPMENT IVISION
Memorial Building, Room B2| 508-532-5455 |www.ChooseFramingham.com
The Community and Economic municipal divisions, boards, and
Development Division (CED) undertakes committees.
a wide variety of projects focused on
PLANNING DEPARTMENT
protecting and enhancing the quality of
Memorial Building, Room B-2 (508)532-5455
planning@framinghamma.gov
projects are multi-dimensional, ranging
from promoting homeownership and The Planning Department concentrates
ston sound planning to promote economic
providing policy analyses and pursuing development and support our residential
mission-related grants. The Division also neighborhoods. Planners manage a
promotes the Town as a desirable place in variety of projects and provide policy
which to live, shop, work, and invest. analyses for the Town Manager and Board
of Selectmen. The Department pursues,
The Division consists of three and manages mission-related grants while
departments: Planning, Zoning Board of also providing staff support to town
Appeals (ZBA), and Community committees.
Development (CD). While each
department concentrates on different Economic Development
functions, each coordinates closely with The Department is committed to
other departments, as well as with other encouraging appropriate economic
development in order to support and vision for Transit Oriented
expand the tax base and contribute to the Development (TOD).
fiscal health of the town. The
Downtown managed Metropolitan
Department is responsible for
Area Planning Council (MAPC)
research to facilitate TOD, focusing
Development Strategic Plan. Consisting
on market analysis, project feasibility,
of four interconnected components, the
zoning, and transit improvements.
Plan identifies and plans for key sites and
districts, facilitates Town investment to
completed in 2015.
establish a framework for the private
Mass Pike Exit 12 managed research
sector, creates a business friendly
testing feasibility of creating a mixed-
environment, and markets the
use transit center supporting the Tech
assets to attract new development and
Park and 9/90 Corporate Center.
redevelopment. The Planning
Secured matching funds through
Department also supports the
implementation of the Master Plan,
report will be completed in early 2015.
updated by the Planning Board in 2014.
Mass Pike Exit 13 initiated
discussion with Natick and MassDOT
Appropriate Economic Development
on improving Mass Pike access, to
The Department targets and promotes the
improve traffic flow and encourage
development of major parcels for
employer growth.
(re)development throughout town. Staff
Southeast Framingham developed a
also engage with businesses with expiring
statement of work for a Master Plan,
leases, monitor property that is available
to coordinate Town improvements to
for sale and lease, respond to questions
the Waverly Street/Beaver Street area.
from individuals and businesses interested
CED has submitted the project to
in locating in Framingham, and link
MAPC for funding; a decision will be
projects to available property. Staff sit on
made in early 2015.
interdepartmental teams that review
Housing
proposed development proposals in order
Housing Plan.
to facilitate the project through the
various review processes. Staff also serve
The planning and economic development
ces,
functions performed by staff are closely
connecting property owners, existing
interrelated with the work of the
businesses, and prospective businesses
Economic Development Industrial
with other municipal departments.
Corporation (EDIC). Staff and the EDIC
collaborate extensively in order to further
Major 2014 Planning Department
our shared commitment to promote
initiatives include:
economic development.
Economic Development Industrial
employers and property owners,
Corporation (EDIC). The EDIC is
introducing the Town and CED as a
charged with creating a pro-active capacity
ready resource to support growth.
to execute activities supporting the
Downtown - coordinated Roundtable
Economic Development Strategic Plan.
discussions with business, community,
Based in part on the Economic
and development leaders to develop a
Development Self-Assessment Tool
(EDSAT) it sponsored in 2012, the EDIC (www.ChooseFramingham.com/dininggui
received funding this year for a number of de) researching manufacturing enterprises
activities. in Framingham and the Creative
Economy, helping with outreach for the
The bulk of the funding was designated to Beautification Program, and demographic
hire a consultant to develop and research.
implement a marketing plan, to help the
Town position itself as a desirable location Both CED and EDIC work closely with
to live and open a business. The the MetroWest Chamber of Commerce
Marketing Plan was completed in June and the MetroWest 495 Partnership which
2014. In November 2014 another are strong and effective allies in our
marketing firm began initiatives such as a efforts to strengthen the tax base. We
newsletter and an increased social media also maintain strong partnerships with
presence. state and regional agencies as well as
Framingham Downtown Renaissance.
Additional funds were used to fund a
highly successful site Beautification Promotion
Program for businesses located in highly Consistent with the Economic
visible areas. Funds are also being used Development Strategic Plan, a concerted
for a Strategic Economic Development effort is underway to market the desirable
Plan (www.framinghamma.gov/Villages attributes of Framingham in order to
2015) for the Nobscot and Saxonville encourage individuals, families and firms
commercial districts which kicked off in to locate, invest, and shop in our town.
December 2014 and will finish in Summer Planners continue to developed the
2015. This project will provide a www.chooseframingham.com website,
community-supported vision for and have established both a twitter
redevelopment in these areas that will account @ChooseFram and a Facebook
guide both public and private investment. page through which events and positive
stories are broadcast.
Additional funds have been used to
acquire business data subscriptions and Downtown Revitalization
memberships and to provide training Building on planning efforts dating to
opportunities for EDIC and CED staff. 2009, the Planning Department
The EDIC has also contracted with the coordinates and supports several efforts
MetroWest Economic Research Center to promote revitalization and TOD.
for an in-
economic picture. In addition to coordinating Roundtable
discussions and MAPC research on
EDIC and CED have created an promoting Transit Oriented
internship program in conjunction with Development, in 2014 the CED worked
Framingham State University in order to closely with other departments on
take advantage of the considerable permitting and other business issues in the
resources offered by the university while Downtown. CED also provides funding
advancing Town economic development to Framingham Downtown Renaissance,
objectives with minimal impact on the which promotes the Downtown and
municipal budget. In 2014, EDIC interns works directly with area businesses.
undertook a number of projects including
CED also coordinates with other Town Festival. FDR sponsored its annual
departments on infrastructure planning. Winter Wonderland, to promote
The Town also began implementing a downtown shopping over the holidays.
state-funded plan creating vehicular and
pedestrian improvements to address
traffic flow and improve safety along the spectators to local businesses.
Concord Street. These plans also include
major streetscape improvements to In organization, FDR acted as a liaison
beautify the downtown and help entice between businesses and the Town, to
visitors to the district. Initial construction address downtown business needs. FDR
began in Fall 2014 and will begin in maintained and expanded its online
earnest in Spring 2015. presence, through its Facebook pages,
Twitter feed, and its web site,
The long-term plan to introduce a grade www.fdrms.org.
separation into the downtown, is a priority
Town project on the Metropolitan Neighborhood Commercial Areas
The Planning Department continued its
Transportation Plan (LRTP). efforts to encourage and facilitate the
revitalization of several neighborhood
Framingham Downtown Renaissance commercial areas. CED also worked with
CED staff work closely with Framingham the developer and the Planning Board to
Downtown Renaissance (FDR), a non-permit a retail redevelopment plan for Mt.
profit organization focused on the Wayte shopping center site. CED and the
revitalization of our downtown. Staff EDIC also began work on a Villages 2015
participate in board of directors meetings plan for the commercial centers in
to provide support and insure Nobscot and Saxonville.
collaboration between FDR and Town
efforts and policies. In addition to staff Brownfields Project
support, in FY15CED contributed Framingham has a considerable number
$50,000 in (federal) Community of brownfields, which are properties that
Development Block Grant funds to contain or potentially contain hazardous
further the goals of FDR. substances, pollutants or contaminants
Under the leadership of Executive for expansion or redevelopment.
Director Holli Andrews, FDR 2014 Brownfields are not only a blighting
activities focused on downtown design, influence on their surroundings, but are
promotion, and organization. In design, typically underutilized, thereby
representing enormous potential to
generate significant new property taxes
fundraising and planning for a mural once they are abated or it is established
spanning the brick wall of a building that that they are not contaminated.
facing Routes 126 and 135.
Since 2008, the Department secured and
In promotion, FDR continued its administered two $200,000 EPA grants to
pop-up galleries identify, abate, and eventually redevelop
showcasing local art/artists, conducted a brownfields. The Planning Department
Contra Dance fundraiser in Nevins Hall, was awarded an additional $400,000 grant
and conducted its third annual Farm Pond
in May 2012, allowing us to continue the abate in 2013. The Planning Department
Brownfields Revitalization Program. continued to implement the
Neighborhood Stabilization Program
The Program involves identifying and (NSP), funded by three grants secured and
targeting sites, interfacing with property administered by CED totaling $1.35
owners, and working with a licensed site million. The mission of NSP is to acquire
professional (LSP) hired by the division to and convert foreclosed properties into
conduct environmental site assessments owner-occupied homes to reduce the
(ESAs) of selected properties. This year, potential for blight and help stabilize
the Town used funding to continue to neighborhoods. The success of NSP
represents the combined efforts of the
acres of land north of the proposed Planning and CD Departments, the Board
Danforth Green Planned Unit of Selectmen and the Framingham
Development (PUD) as conservation and Housing Authority (FHA) and its
recreation land, given to the Town by the subsidiary, the Framingham Housing
developer. Brownfields funds also helped Development Corporation.
the Town investigate Transit Oriented
Development issues in the Downtown, Thus far, the Program has resulted in the
identified sites for a potential new school purchase of seven homes, six of which
on the south side, and supported the have been completely renovated and five
of which were sold to income-eligible
MassBay Community College for a new applicants in 2011, 2012, and 2013. One
campus. two-family property was retained by FHA;
the seventh property was rehabilitated in
Residential Neighborhoods early 2014. This grant is mostly expended
While economic development initiatives and will close out in 2015.
support residential neighborhoods by
generating additional taxes, the Planning Policy Analyses, Studies, Project
Department enhances these efforts by Management, and Special Projects
undertaking projects that protect and CED undertakes projects, prepares policy
ods. analyses, and coordinates inter-
The Department continued to respond to departmental projects. Some of these
a Board of Selectmen policy placing a 2014 projects include the following:
priority on encouraging homeownership
and targeting efforts to vulnerable Open Space and Recreation Plan
neighborhoods. Both the Community Implementation Working Group
Development Block Grant (CDBG) and (OSRPIWG)
HOME Programs are focused on The Planning Department staffs the
improving neighborhoods. The CD OSRPIWG, which is charged with
Coordinator and Housing Quality implementing the 2013 Open Space and
Recreation Plan (OSRP). In 2014, staff
Enforcement Task Force, linking federally successfully applied for two significant
funded rehabilitation programs to Town state open space grants. First, a $400,000
neighborhood improvement efforts. LAND grant was awarded for the
purchase of the Snow Property at 95
Neighborhood Stabilization Program Wayside Inn Road, which will become
The dramatic increase in home Town conservation land. Second, an
foreclosures that began in 2008 started to additional $200,000 is likely to be awarded
in 2015 for the purchase of conservation under the proposed trail. Design plans
easements along the Sudbury River as part for the trail were submitted to MassDOT
of the Nyanza settlement. in 2011 after the Planning Department
secured a $700,000 MassDOT
Staff from CED, Planning Board, and the transportation grant in 2010, to help
Conservation Commission collaborated to complete the trail. DPW completed the
Strategy. Key tasks included development Framingham Sewer
of a town-wide list of priority parcels to Improvement Project. Governor Patrick
consider for open space protection, attended the ribbon cutting for the
comprehensive review of open space completed CRT in summer 2014.
opportunities on the south side, and
analysis of funding mechanisms to Bruce Freeman Rail Trail (BFRT)
implement the OSRP. The Department manages the planning
process to develop the Framingham
Transportation component of the proposed 35-mile rail
CED works closely with DPW to insure trail that will extend from Lowell to
Framingham. The Department has been
improvement priorities are identified on seeking grant funding and working with
the regional committee representing all of
Plan (TIP), a prerequisite for federal and the communities through which the trail
state funding. The Senior Planner serves will traverse.
year, the TIP Committee met several Aqueducts
times to identify projects and prioritize Planners continue to be actively engaged
projects to advance on the TIP. in improving public access to the Weston
and Sudbury Aqueducts. In collaboration
Bicycle and Pedestrian Planning with MAPC, unopened segments of the
CED recognizes a need for a Weston aqueduct have continued to be
comprehensive look at better analyzed to determine alternate routes
accommodating bicycle and pedestrian and/or wayfinding signage around these
access throughout Town. Beginning in aqueduct gaps.
spring 2014, CED staff is leading an
interdepartmental team including DPW Zoning Recodification
and Planning Board staff to prepare a CED actively participated in the first
document that can guide Town phases of the Zoning Bylaw
investment in alternative transportation Recodification alongside Town Counsel,
infrastructure. The process kicked-off the Building Commissioner, Planning
Board, and Town Manager. Town
meeting accepted the many phase one
the MPO. This effort ties into the changes (table of uses, definitions, site
plan review, etc.) during the fall Special
Complete Streets Policy. Town Meeting.
Cochituate Rail Trail (CRT) Sustainability Planning
The Department has worked closely with This year, the Department worked on a
DPW to coordinate design and number of Sustainability Initiatives. In
construction activities with sewer work January 2014, the Town was designated as
DOER. This designation came with
MassEVIP program towards the
$301,900 for implementation of energy
purchase of two electric vehicles,
efficient projects in Town-owned
buildings and grounds. CED staff also
The Department applied for another
$400,000 Brownfields Assessment Grant.
-wide
projects that the Town can promote to
Through CED, Planning Board, and
increase residential and commercial energy
efficiency.
MetroWest Moves, the Town was
awarded the 2014 Community
Subsidized Housing Inventory (SHI)
Innovation Challenge grant, along with
The Planning Department monitors the
Hudson and Marlborough, to develop a
Complete Streets prioritization tool. The
Subsidized Housing Inventory in order to
group was also awarded funds through
the District Local Technical Assistance
housing units are accurately and fully
Program to determine ways to advance
Complete Streets.
excess of 10%, which limits the
applicability of Chapter 40B
Provide Support to Town Committees
Comprehensive Permits (subsidized
CED provides staff support to several
housing development that is not subject
Town committees in addition to the
to municipal Zoning Codes). In 2014,
EDIC, the Framingham Historic
CED worked with the developers of
Commission and the Framingham
Danforth Green and the Planning Board,
Historic District Commission. The
to ensure the creation of affordable units
Director serves on Multiple Hazard
Mitigation Planning Group, which
Inclusionary Zoning bylaw. When
consists of representatives of various
created, the Town will add these units to
Town divisions as well as citizens. The
the SHI.
group is responsible for overseeing the
State and Federal Grants
Hazard Mitigation Plan, required by the
The Planning Department constantly
Federal Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000.
identifies and analyzes the applicability of
grants as well as researches the availability
Linkages to Municipal, Regional, and
of funding for specific projects. In 2014,
State Organizations
CED secured:
The Director and staff participate on
and/or represent the Town on a host of
$400,000 from the State to purchaseassociations, working groups and
conservation landcommittees including but not limited to
MetroWest Chamber of Commerce,
$301,900 from DOER for Green
MAPC, MetroWest Regional
Communities projects
Collaborative, MetroWest Economic
$12,500 in matching funds from
Research Council Advisory, MetroWest
MassDevelopment, to support study
Moves, Athenaeum Task Force,
of the feasibility of transit-oriented
Framingham Community Partnership,
development projects near Mass Pike
Greater Callahan Initiative,
Exit 12
1
MetroWest/495 Partnership,
Transportation Improvement Program Sixty-four petitions were filed with the
(TIP), Code Enforcement Task Force, ZBA office in 2014. These 64 cases
FDR, and Brownfields Coalition of the represent 11 more than the 53 cases
Northeast. The division also maintains processed in 2013. Of the 64 cases heard
strong contacts with the Massachusetts in 2014, 35 were requests for variances, 25
Office of Business Development for special permits, 2 for findings, and 2
(MOBD) and MassDevelopment. appeals of the decision of the Building
Commissioner. Variance and special
permit requests included those for relief
ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS from dimensional requirements for:
Memorial Building, Room B2 construction of, and additions to, single
(508)532-5456 zba@framinghamma.gov
family homes; placement of sheds on
The Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) is
residential properties; construction of
the Permit Granting Authority and the
two-family residences and automotive and
Special Permit Granting Authority for
restaurant uses; and changes of use for
projects that do not meet the
local businesses. Some of these filings
were the outcome of changes in zoning
districts in past years resulting in non-
approve or deny requests for appeals,
conforming lots.
variances, and special permits, and issue
findings through the public hearing
Three Associate Members presided over
process by determining if the required
sign appeal applications, with a fourth
criteria, as stated in the Zoning Bylaw,
Alternate Member. Nineteen sign
have been met. The ZBA also
applications were filed in 2014.
administers the Comprehensive Permit
process for affordable housing as set forth
The Board generally meets on the second
under M.G.L. Chapter 40B.
Tuesday of every month at 7:00 P.M. in
the Blumer Room. Members of the
The ZBA is a three-member Board
public are welcome to attend.
appointed by the Selectmen. In 2014, Full
Members of the Board were Philip R.
Ottaviani, Jr., Chair; Susan S. Craighead,
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Vice-Chair; and Stephen E. Meltzer,
AND HOME PROGRAMS
Clerk. Karl Thober, Edward (Ted)
Memorial Building, Room B-3
(508)532-5457 dcollins@framinghamma.gov
Cosgrove, Robert Snider and Kevin
Gatlin served as Associate Members. Mr. The Community Development
Thober resigned as of June 2014, leaving a Department manages and administers the
vacant seat yet to be filled. Marianne Federal Community Development Block
Iarossi continued the duties of ZBA Grant (CDBG) and the Home Investment
Administrator. Ms. Iarossi prepared the Partnership Act (HOME) funds the Town
nd advised the Board receives from the US Department of
on procedural and other issues. Heidi Housing and Urban Development. These
Bryce continued her duties as monies fund projects, programs and
Administrative Assistant. Town Counsel services which benefit low and moderate
advised the Board as required. Total filing income persons, and develop and
fees in 2014 amounted to $36,339. These maintain affordable housing for our most
funds go directly into the General Fund. needy populations. The Community
1
Development Department is staffed by 2 department team who conduct monthly
FT, and 2 PT positions. During FY2014, site visits of the neighborhoods to
the Town received $477,548 in CDBG develop solutions and improvements from
funds and $213,747 of HOME funds. a holistic, inter-disciplinary approach.
The following summarizes several major
accomplishments during 2014: Public Facilities Improvements:
Housing Rehabilitation Assistance In 2014 CDBG continued to fund several
Program (HRAP) public facilities improvements:
The HRAP program provided technical
Carey Baseball Phase I removal of
assistance and rehabilitation loans for
non-conforming bleachers and
emergency repairs and substantial
installation of ADA compliant ones
rehabilitation to homes of income-eligible
with path and parking
homeowners. In 2014, the HRAP
Rose KennedyLane ADA
program assisted 11 eligible homeowners.
2014 also brought a new Housing Laundry/CommunityRoom
Quality/Code Inspector. A shared installation of an accessible laundry
position between the CD Office and the facility at an 80-unit elderly/disable
FHA complex
Inspectional Services Department, the
Inspector provides housing rehabilitation
and neighborhood code enforcement. Economic Development & Façade/
The shared positon allowed for targeting Sign Improvement Program
In 2014, CDBG funds were provided to
& marketing of the HRAP program to
properties identified in the Code fund the FDR Main Street Executive
Enforcement/Neighborhood Director position . In its third year, this
Improvement Program. program provided technical assistance to
forty seven (47) local businesses that serve
Homebuyer Assistance area residents. In addition, over 6 public
The CD Department continues to events were created to highlight
administer downtown businesses and increase the
customer base to downtown, most
Down Payment Assistance Program a
program which assists income eligible
residents to become Framingham
homeowners. In 2014, the CD Office participated in the Façade/Sign
Improvement program, - Deluxe Dinner
received 2-3 inquiries a month, reviewed 4
applications, and made 1 commitment to and Interlatin, - receiving technical
assist a young, single mother. assistance and funding for signs that
maximize business identification and
Code Enforcement & Neighborhood
improve the appearance of the
Improvement
Downtown commercial district
Based on the need to arrest deterioration
and improve targeted low income
Public Services
neighborhoods, CDBG funds pay for
CDBG funds supported 5 public services
housing code inspections in designated
activities serving 308 low and moderate
neighborhoods. In 2014, over 515
income residents. The following
inspectional cases were conducted and
programs were funded: Community
443 cases were resolved. This program
Connections Summer Work Program, a
works in tandem with the Code
summer employment and counseling
'
Enforcement Task Force, a multi-
program for teens; Resiliency for Life, an
enrichment program for at-risk high affordable housing; the purchase and
school students; H.O.P.E., an academic rehabilitation of 117 Second Street, a
and job search assistance program for 14-single family homed owned by the
21 year old residents of the Pelham II Framingham Housing Corporation, the
Apartments; Literacy Unlimited, a literacy
training program for non-native English for the rehabilitation of the Tribune
speakers, and Framingham Adult ESL Apartments, a 53 unit elderly and disable
Plus, an English-as-a-Second Language complex on Irving Street.
program.
Subsidized Housing Support
Respectfully Submitted,
In 2014, HOME funds supported on-
Arthur P. Robert, Director
going renovation and rehabilitation of
Community & Economic Development
affordable housing in Framingham: the
Division
creation of 5 accessible and sensory units
at the Edmands House, a 190-unit of
MWRTA(MWRTA)
ETROEST EGIONAL RANSIT UTHORITY
160 Waverly Street, Framingham, MA 01702| 508-935-2222 |ed@mwrta.com
In 2009, the Authority, through a Federal
The MetroWest RTA was created by a
grant, expanded again to create a link to
vote of the Framingham and the Ashland
the Woodland MBTA Station in Newton
Boards of Selectman in December of
(Route #1) setting the stage for using the
2006. By the summer of 2007, seven
Charlie Card system wide. Additionally,
additional communities had joined, a
budget and fares were put in place, and an
RIDE provision in Framingham and
Administrator was hired to oversee the
Natick expanding again the demand
daily operation of the LIFT which had
response provision by another 5,000 rides
been under the Framingham Planning
a month.
Depa
service was then initiated on December
In 2010, the Authority, using state and
st
1, 2007 with a new contracted provider
federal funds, purchased and rehabilitated
and 10 new buses obtained from Federal
a facility at 37 Waverly St. which has
and State grants. At the same time, the
nd maintenance
MWRTA was paying the MBTA to
depot for the system. In 2011, Wellesley
continue its RIDE service in the
th
joined the Authority as its 12 member.
Framingham and Natick area.
Additionally the MWRTA began
collaboration with Framingham State
In 2008, the original Framingham LIFT
University, supporting a student operated
and the Natick Neighborhood bus routes
system with capital and training that is
were integrated into a unified transit
fully funded by the University.
system. That year, Marlborough and
Southborough joined MWRTA,
In 2013, the MWRTA purchased the 15
expanding demand response service
Blandin Ave facility from SMOC and has
delivery by 2,000 rides a month.
identified $10 million in federal and state
1
funds to rehab it and plan for intermodal The MWRTA will continue to build upon
applications to the commuter rail. The the over 600,000 rides provided in FY14
Town of Dover has also joined the by using technology, an emphasis on
Authority. customer service and the more effective
and efficient delivery of transportation
In 2014, the Authority began rehabbing
service. For further details and for real
the 15 Blandin Ave facility, expecting
time transit options and customer service,
completion in Spring 2015. A CDL
please visit our website: www.mwrta.com.
program was created through an earmark
sponsored by Sen. Spilka. Towns of Respectfully Submitted,
Hudson and Milford joined, bringing the
Ed Carr, MWRTA Administrator
total member of communities up to 15.
FHA
RAMINGHAM OUSING UTHORITY
One John J. Brady Drive, Framingham, MA 01702| 508-879-7562 |bogrady@framha.org
Formed in 1946, the Framingham In our state elderly development original
Housing Authority (FHA) is led by a windows dating from 1966 were replaced
dedicated five-member Board of in 80 units, and tree removal and paving
Commissioners. were completed. Eight (8) units in our
presently the interim Executive Director state family portfolio were rehabbed with
and has a supportive and professional new kitchens and baths. In our Federal
staff of 42. The FHA maintains over 1000 Family units site work was completed and
units of Public Housing and over 900 needed roofing was replaced.
units of rental assistance units in the
State Funded Housing
private market in cooperation with
The Framingham Housing Authority
federal, state and local authorities.
administers 249 units of two- and three-
Modernization/Preventative bedroom state-aided family public
Maintenance Housing. The 110 units at the Musterfield
As one of the largest property owners Development is a tax Credit property.
within the Town of Framingham, the Oran Rd is a development of twelve (12)
Authority takes pride in maintaining safe, one-bedroom units designed to house
sanitary and affordable housing to its
residents. The Authority has always placed family units. The FHA has 536 one-
great importance on the need for bedroom units for elderly/disabled
preventive maintenance, as well as Housing. The Authority also owns
securing funds for many modernization twenty-four (24) units of state subsidized
projects. handicap housing. Rental Assistance
through the Mass. Rental Voucher
In 2014 the Authority received approval Program (MRVP) includes 62 units of
from the state agency Department of single room occupancy.
Housing and Community Development
Federally Funded Housing
(DHCD) to complete the final phase of
The Authority administers 125 units of
the Memorial House interior renovations.
Family Federal Housing and 110
The work will be completed in 2015.
elderly/disabled units on John J. Brady
Drive. The Authority administers 983
1
Federal Section 8 Rental Assistance
Vouchers for privately-owned properties.
Resident Activities
The Activity Center at the Musterfield
Place, which was dedicated in 2013 to
Edward Convery who served on the
Board of Commissioners for over twenty-
five years, is thriving with new children
participating daily in the programs. The
Center offers homework assistance and
computer literacy programs to children
ages 9-14.
The Hoops to Homework program is
located at our Federal Family
Development allowing the children
homework assistance and computer
literacy.
Respectfully Submitted,
Interim Executive Director
Commissioners:
Janice M. Rogers, Chairman
Faith C. Tolson-Pierce, Vice Chairman
Phyllis A. May, Treasurer
Stephen P. Starr, Asst. Treasurer
Robert L. Merusi, Member
1
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
RECREATION AND CULTURAL AFFAIRS
P&RC|P&RD
ARKS ECREATION OMMISSION ARKS ECREATION EPARTMENT
C|CA
C
EMETERY OMMISSION OUNCIL ON GING
P,&C
ARKS RECREATION ULTURAL AFFAIRS
475 Union Avenue | 508-532-59600 | parks.recreation@framinghamma.gov
Construction of the innovative children’s
Joan Rastani served as chairwoman with
grove at Cushing Memorial Park began in
other members Barry Bograd, Kathy
the fall and is expected to be completed
Hauck, Dave Gudejko and Phil Reitz.
by June 2015. This project was made
possible through a $460,000 reimbursable
Bob Merusi, longtime director of the
grant from the Commonwealth’s Parkland
department retired in March 2014.
Acquisitions and Renovations for
Through his 40 year directorship, he was
Communities (PARC)program. The
responsible for many capital projects and
children’s grove, a newer concept in
program improvements. Bob’s vision
playground construction, will integrate
changed the face of the department. His
formal play equipment and the natural
leadership was replaced by James Duane,
environment using tunnels, tree stumps,
former Deputy Director with 14 years of
grade changes and other features.
overall park experience.
The Annual Town Meeting voted an The Division was successful in securing a
FY15 operating budget of$2,735,703for Community Development Block Grant to
Parks Administration, Maintenance and construct accessible baseball bleachers on
Recreation. This new budget allowed for the west side of the Carey Baseball field at
the restoration of two summer Rec Center the Bowditch Athletic Complex.
Directors. Construction began in the fall and will be
completed in the spring of 2015.
With support from the Capital Budget
Committee and Town Meeting Members, Mary Dennison Park is undergoing soil
the following items were approved: testing and assessment by Fuss and
O’Neil, the Town’s professional
Mary Dennison Park Assessment
consultants. This effort is being overseen
Repurposing an existing F-650
by the MA DEP, who is working very
vehicle from a dump truck to a
closely with the Town Manager and the
J-Hook system with interchangeable
Board of Health. At the Spring Town
body attachments
Meeting, $60,000 was appropriated to
Purchase of an F350 4x4 crew cab
begin the assessment of soil conditions at
pickup truck
the park. As a result of elevated lead
Purchase of an F350 4x4 regular cab
content in the preliminary tests, the
pickup truck
eastern playground area was closed
Callahan Center front entrance
pending long term response actions.
redesign and construction
Based on some of the findings and
Edwards Cemetery roadway
additional testing requirements, Fall Town
reconstruction
Meeting appropriated $180,000 toward
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
the ongoing effort. MA DEP has included For the fifth year, we managed the ever
former property owner, Avery Dennison popular “Friday Night Concerts on the
Manufacturing Company, in the Green.” The eight week schedule of local
assessment effort and their participation talent included the sounds of Chris Anders,
has been pro-active. JC & Enfusion, the Reminisants, Hot
Acoustics, Playing Dead and the Tom Nutile
The departmentwas the host of the first Big Band. The weather prevented the
MetroFest. This very successful event was Metro Band from performing but they will
sponsored by the MetroWest Visitors return next year. We are grateful to the
Bureau and took place at Bowditch many sponsors who made this event
Athletic and Cultural Complex. The event possible including the Framingham
drew about 7,000 attendees and included Cultural Council.
over 25 food trucks, 70 crafters and
exhibitors and headliner John Cafferty & The department sponsored many special
the Beaver Brown Band on the main events this year with assistance of Friends
stage. of Framingham Recreation. The highlights
included the Egg-citing Egg Hunt, Santa’s
We would like to thank Town Meeting, lil’ Sports, Movie Night at Bowditch and
the many Town boards, committees, the 911 Ceremony at Cushing Memorial
departments and volunteers for Park. Unfortunately, the traditional
supporting our services. We would also Thanksgiving Eve Bonfire was canceled
like to thank the hundreds of user due to a deluge of rain. These events
organizations and volunteers for their continue to grow in popularity and size.
continued support.
The Town Beaches had over 11,000
visitors in spite of Lake Waushakum being
Joan Rastani, Chair
closed numerous times due to poor water
Park and Recreation Commission
quality. The successful 202 member
James Duane, Director
summer Swim Team, led by Shawn
Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Affairs
O’Leary, was undefeated in the regular
season and went on to win both the A &
Recreation
B Regionals and the Girls and Boys Mile
The Recreation Department provides
swim. The Wednesday Night Family
programs geared toward a varied
Track Meets sponsored by the Greater
population including adults, youth,
Framingham Running Club continue to
seniors, preschool and those with special
grow in popularity.
needs. Services areprovided through a
combination of user fees and public tax
For the first time, we partnered with the
dollars. During the past year, we offered
Framingham Police Department to co-
358 different sessions in over 117
sponsor the Pumpkins in the Park event
different program categories. New
at Bowditch Field. After painting
programs included Family Fun Night,
pumpkins and enjoying all of the
Supervised Playgrounds, Scientists at
festivities including a mini train ride,
Work, Archery, Guitar Lessons, Camera
children and their families boarded a
Classes,Softball Clinic and additional
school bus to go trick-or-treating through
Fitness Training and Adaptive Sports.
the downtown businesses.
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
Grants that enhanced our 2014 programs planned maintenance program in addition
included the Department of Conservation to a field use scheduling program
and Recreation for the Massachusetts Park supported by policies and driven by our
Pass; YouthWorks (formerly Future Skills) overall Mission Statement. This is a
funded one summer counselor for our proactive approach enabling us to manage
Recreation Centers while Project Bread our facilities to prevent over use and at
and the United States Department of the same time, offer greater public access
Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service to our facilities.
provided free breakfast and lunch for the
Recreation Special Needs Program. We Through our maintenance program, we
thank them for all this assistance. In have been able to maintain a very high
addition, we thank the Sudbury River level of quality on our high use turf areas.
Tennis Club for their generous donation Our program continues to use a balanced
to help defray the cost of the summer system of aeration, fertilization, seeding
tennis lessons. Additionally, Friends of and mowing along with proper irrigation
Framingham Recreation was able to grant inthe most cost effective manner. We
numerous scholarships for Recreation continue to monitor our soil conditions
Programs to families in need. and provide the necessary nutrient
applications as needed.
We would like to thank the Town
Selectmen, Town Meeting Members, Each year we have requests to provide
Town Staff and numerous community additional practice and game field
volunteers for their support and facilities. The demand is constant and
dedication. Without their continuedthere are few alternatives. Over use of
support, we would not be successful in facilities and the decline in turf quality is
offering quality programs to the residents still a major problem and concern for us.
of Framingham. The strategy of field rotation and limiting
use has worked in the past, but once again
We welcome input from Town residents we are being challenged for not having
and we value both your feedback and enough space for all groups. We’ve had to
involvement in our programs. look at ways to change how and where
some of the non-traditional user groups
Trisha Powell
are being scheduled. There is a definite
Superintendent of Recreation
need to look at some long range plans for
James Duane, Director
future field space, including the possibility
Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Affairs
of adding synthetic fields to our inventory.
Until this happens, we will continue to be
Parks Maintenance
asked to provide more use on areas that
The Parks Maintenance Division provides
are already seeing heavy use, requiring us
safe and well maintained facilities for over
to impact users and shut down fields for
15,000 formally scheduled events each
costly renovations.
year. Our user groups range from youth
sports to corporate leagues. They
Our Maintenance Department continues
encompass many different levels of
to provide support to the athletic
organized sports as well as individuals
programs of three high schools,
enjoying passive types of recreation
Framingham High, Marian High and
activities. Our commitment in providing
Keefe Regional Technical High School.
well maintained facilities combines a well
Other schools that rely on our department
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
for a portion of their athletic program The Marathon Daffodil project was very
needs include Framingham State successful and added a colorful trail along
University and Mass Bay Community the Marathon route.
College. In addition to school athletics,
the department provides scheduling of I would like to thank all our volunteers
facilities for hundreds of other user and volunteer groups that supplied time
groups from the Framingham community. and materials on projects this past year.
Their support was invaluable.
Our working relationship with Keefe
Regional Technical School continues to We continue to work cooperatively with
benefit the Park & Recreation department other Town departments and would like
and the Town through in-kind services. to thank them for their continued
This mutually beneficial relationship support. It would be very difficult for us
provides the Town of Framingham with to achieve the success we have without
access to cost effective, professionally their help.
supervised electrical, carpentry, plumbing
and metal fabrication, while affording Chris McGinty
students the benefit of practical “real Superintendent, Parks Maintenance
world” learning experiences in a James Duane, Director
commercial setting. Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Affairs
The first phase of the CDBG funded Cemeteries
project to install handicapped accessible
The Cemetery Commission consists of a
bleachers at Carey Field was well received.
three member board appointed by the
Through a second round of CDBG
Board of Selectmen.
funding, the west-side grandstands are
anticipated to be completed in the spring
Leone’s Landscaping is in the first year of
of 2015.
their grounds maintenance contract. We
are happy with the services they have
Through our Capital Budget program, we
provided the town at our three cemeteries.
were able to purchase two new vehicles
and also repurpose an existing fleet
The moratorium on the general sale of
vehicle to a multi-use J hook style truck
new lots is still in effect due to limited
with changeable attachments.
supply. The fee schedule for cemetery
associated activities remained the same in
The Capital project of reconstructing the
FY14. The Parks Maintenance staff
Edwards Cemetery roads will start in early
continues to perform grave openings and
spring 2015.
performed one burial and one cremation
internment at Edwards Cemetery during
Our tree maintenance program continues
the year. We continue to receive requests
on a much smaller scale, concentrating on
for historical records associated with the
hazardous trees and trees with obvious
cemeteries and are able to access an
structural defects. We are requesting
electronic database to promptly respond
increased funding in FY16 to start making
to most inquiries.
progress on work required in this area.
Due to maintenance concerns associated
Our town wide beautification program
with the mound tombs in two of our
continues to be a successful collaboration
cemeteries, we contracted with an industry
with our department and outside groups.
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
engineer to assess and report on their
structural integrity. As a result,we are In April of 2014, the arena purchased a
proposing a two phased project to address new electric Zamboni as a replacement for
issues identified in the engineering report. the 18 year old machine. These machines
Phase one will include a $38,944 request will be alternated on a biweekly basis
in our FY16 budget to address the tombs which prevents the batteries from
at the Main Street Cemetery. Phase two discharging in addition to prolonging the
will include a $87,294 request in our FY17 life expectancy of both machines. Several
budget to address the tombs at Old South major parts have been replaced to the
Burial Ground. We have identified the older Zamboni this year including a lift
need to accomplish tree pruning and bar, dog’s ears, pillar block bearings, down
removals at all three cemeteries and are pressure springs and paint to the back of
requesting these funds in our FY16 the conditioner.
budget.
Several minor capital improvements were
We were able to make significant repairs accomplished in the arena this year. We
to the entrance road of the Main Street replaced five deteriorated shower valves
Cemetery this past spring. Roadway and shower heads with new energy
reconstruction at the Edwards Cemetery efficient equipment. The arena now has
was approved through the Capital Budget eight showers which are all currently
and will begin in the spring of 2015. updated with water saving showerheads
and valves. In addition, we recently
Report submitted on behalf of the installed four new coin operated infrared
Cemetery Commission by:heat controllers. As a result, arena
patrons are now able to sit anywhere in
Christopher A. McGinty the stands and activate one of the six
Superintendent, Parks & Recreation infrared heating zones as needed to
James Duane, Director increase their comfort level. To activate
Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Affairs the heat, each box requires four quarters
for 30 minutes or eight quarters for 60
Cemetery Commission minutes.
Barry Bograd Chairman
Kathy Hauk In May, the marquee sign located near the
Vacancy entrance of the arena was upgraded to a
color LED system with increased
Loring Arena functionality and visibility. With four lines
of text display and color capabilities, the
st
In its 51year of operation, Loring Arena
sign increases effectiveness of information
continues to provide safe and reliable
displayed related to arena events and
skating services to a broad range of
issues of Town-wide importance.
community users, including community
events, Parks and Recreation programs, all
We were privileged to have Gracie Gold,
levels of Framingham High School
the US Olympic bronze medalist, practice
Hockey for girls and boys, Northstar
at our arena in January of 2014. Gracie
Figure Skating Club, Framingham State
was the 2014 US National Figure Skating
University, adult hockey, Framingham
Champion. Her coach was figure skating
Youth Hockey, and public skating on a
legend Frank Carroll who was impressed
daily basis.
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
with the ice surface stating “it was the best screenings and alternative therapies
ice he had seen.” involved 1,924 attendees. The Social
Services staff provided nearly 2,400 units
The following is financial information of service to nearly 600seniors ranging
relating to business conducted through from referrals for housing and
the fiscal year ending June 30, 2014. transportation, to securing various benefit
programs, along with supportive
Total gross revenue as of June 30, 2014: counseling. In addition, they connect with
$514,221.42*many non–seniors to provide guidance
Total Rink Operational Expenditures as related to their loved ones who are
of June 30, 2014: $459,916.20** seniors. About 556 pieces of durable
medical equipment were loaned out free
*Higher revenue in 2013 reflects lump
of charge.
sum payment for a three year advertising
contract with Mutual One Bank.
Construction began in October 2014 on
**Does not include health insurance and
the design of a more accessible and safer
debt service
entrance to the Callahan Center.
Richard Weston, Director of Loring
James Duane, Director
The Friends of Callahan Senior Center
Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Affairs
was the charity designated to receive
funds raised by three marathoners while
Loring Arena Committee:
they ran the 2014 Boston Marathon. The
Joe Tersoni Co-Chair
Friends of Callahan directed these funds
Richard Callahan
to the Continuing Connections program
John Hart
which provided 26 older adults dealing
Robert Lewis
with Alzheimer’s disease with free weekly
Joan Rastani
sessions of exercise, art and music
Jack Jagher
therapy, peer lunches, counseling support
from social workers as well as
Council on Aging
opportunities for excursions to museums
/
and other cultural attractions. Many local
allahan Senior Center
C
restaurants generously donated lunches
The Raymond J. Callahan Center is a
for the group to enjoy each other’s
multi-purpose center offering programs,
company off site.
activities and services to promote healthy,
successful aging for older adults and the
people who care for them. The Council
Two Title III grants from BayPath Elder
on Aging Board assesses the needs of
Services were renewed until September
elders and advises on programs and
2014 to support the Continuing
services to meet those needs.
Connections program as well as extending
the reach of the volunteer transportation
program beyond medical appointments to
Accomplishments:
help seniors needing assistance to other
About 1,855 seniors participated in 35,550
types of appointments or social events.
activities and programs at the Callahan
The volunteer transportation was renewed
Center in 2014, with more than 12,243 of
through September 2015.
those involving exercise sessions. A
variety of health education sessions, health
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
Thanks to generous sponsorships and New events and happenings in 2014!
donations from the community
A collaboration of volunteers from the
supporting their pancake breakfast fund
Framingham High School Interact Club
raisers, this is the third year the Rotary
and the Plymouth Church, UCC along
Club of Framingham has provided air
with the sand donated from the DPW,
conditioning units to 35 seniors living in
resulted in 12 seniors receiving buckets of
Framingham Housing.
sand to keep their walkways safer during
winter months.
Staffing:
In response to the growing incidence of Other events included the Framingham
Alzheimer’s disease, the Continuing Fire Department providing an
Connections Coordinator’s hours were informational session about fire safety and
increased to 15 hours per week and this a new exercise option for a monthly
became a municipally funded position in Laughter Yoga session was offered. Two
July 2014. A new Customer Service sessions of art therapy and a series of
Manager was hired in September 2014 to painting workshops were made available
replace the manager who retired. as well. Four new craft options were
offered during the year including beading,
quilting, schlep tote bag and sock knitting.
Volunteerism:
The Diabetes Support Group was
About472 volunteers donated more than
resumed after finding a new facilitator.
9,800 hours to the Center in a variety of
ways such as serving on the COA Board,
Clint Knight, Chairperson Council on
escorting seniors to appointments,
Aging Board
answering phones, working in the
Heritage Gallery shop and helping with
numerous activities at the center. Grace T. O’Donnell, Director of Elder
Services
James Duane, Director
Approximately 124 of these volunteers
Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Affairs
came from businesses, religious groups,
and parents, teachers and students of
several area schools to provide more than
900 hours to seniors living in the
community. The SHINE program
contributed more than 500 hours to
provide more than 500 seniors with
information regarding health insurance
Multiculturalism
The Bi-Lingual Outreach Aide continues
to connect Latino elders with services and
a weekly social program, along with an
annual Hispanic Day in September.
Mandarin speaking seniors receive ESOL
classes twice a week.
EDUCATION & LIBRARIES
FPS|JP.KRTVS
RAMINGHAM UBLIC CHOOLS OSEPH EEFE EGIONAL ECHNICAL OCATIONAL CHOOL
FPL
RAMINGHAM UBLIC IBRARY
FPS
RAMINGHAM UBLIC CHOOLS
Fuller Middle School, 31 Flagg Drive | 508-626-9117| shiersche@framingham.k12.ma.us
theopening of a ninth elementary school
due to increased enrollment, professional
development for teachers and staff, and
the addition of assistant principals. The
latter were necessary to ensure compliance
with the new supervision and evaluation
procedures mandated by the Department
of Elementary and Secondary Education.
Legislative Advocacy
This year,the Committee again worked
SCHOOL COMMITTEE
closely with our Framingham legislative
delegation in advocating for more
Fiscal Year 2015 Budget
resources forChapter 70 and Circuit
The School Committee began the budget
Breaker funding, as well asfor bills that
process by taking into account projected
could improve the work of our district.
revenues, expected levels of state and
We thankSenatorKaren Spilka and State
federal funding, and increased expenses
Representatives Tom Sannicandro, Chris
due to Special Education and rising
Walsh, and Tom Conroy for their
enrollment. We were also committed to
productive efforts in increasing state
ensuring that all schools will have the
funding received by the town. Our
necessary resources to support
collaboration with our legislators remains
consistently high academic performance
strong and productive.
and achievement for all students.With
these considerations, ourinitial budget for
Chair Beverly Hugo was elected to the
the school department was$110,685,437.
Executive Board of the Massachusetts
On April 16, the Committee voted to
Association of School Committees
submit a revised budget of $109,368,801.
(MASC). Inthis important role, Chair
This sum wouldinclude monies to
Hugo wasable to advocate at the State
support increased student achievement
House and on Capitol Hill for legislation
and to continue the rebuilding efforts
that will benefit our students. Jim
necessary after budget cuts in prior years.
Stockless was elected Chair of the Boston
Metropolitan division of MASCin
In late May, Town Meeting approved a
November, where he will lead forty towns
FY’15 budget appropriation of
in school board governance.The School
$109,368,801, which included allocations
Committee is proud of our ongoing
for rebuilding(additional technologies),
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
leadership role in state-wide efforts to in the District Governance Support
increase resources, efficiencies, and Project was the creation of a School
funding for public education. Committee Member Handbook, which we
discuss in the next section.
Delegate Assembly
Our Resolutions Subcommittee, convened School Committee Member Handbook
by Jim Stockless and with members For the first time in its history, the
Michelle Brosnahan and Beverly Hugo, Framingham School Committee
authored two resolutions that were passed developed a handbook that explains all
by the delegate assembly of MASC at the the duties, guiding principles, roles, and
state convention in November. One responsibilities of being a school board
resolution concerned “Universal Access to member. This guide will help new
Quality Pre-Kindergarten,” the other was members become quickly acclimated to
“More Accountability by Out-of-District the position and will serve veteran
Special Education Schools.” MASC is members as a handy reference tool. Our
now engaged in a statewide effort to turn Handbook is now being shown
our resolutions into bills that, hopefully, throughout the state by MASC as an
will become legislation. exemplary description of the expectations
and duties of School Committee
FPS Policy Manual members.
The Committee completed a
comprehensive multi-year review of our Communications
district’s policies. The revised Policy The School Committee remains
Manual went online to the public in April. committed to continuously and
All policies have been updated to reflect aggressively broadening the public’s access
best current practices, statutory to information through the use of ever-
requirements, and contractual language. evolving technologies and communication
We thank Convener Andy Limeri, Carol mechanisms. In this effort, we instituted
Phalen, and Beverly Hugo as well as the Communications and Public Relations
numerous teachers and staff for their Task Force, comprising a wide array of
erudite guidance in its development. communal stakeholders. The Task Force
is charged with assisting the School
District Governance Support ProjectCommittee with implementing new
The entire School Committee, along with procedures for providing comprehensive
our superintendent, Dr. Stacy Scott, and transparent information to and from
participated in an intensive six-month all stakeholders.
professional development program with
Nancy Walser of the Harvard Graduate Capital Budget
School of Education and Dorothy Presser Fuller/Farley, King and Tutor/Perini
of the MASC. During this project, we Buildings - Under the tireless efforts of
learned about the characteristics of high Convener Heather Connolly and members
performing school committees and Don Taggart and Michelle Brosnahan, the
developed strategies to ensure effective Capital Budget Subcommittee met with
and efficient school board governance. Director of Buildings and Grounds Matt
This program received a prestigious Torti, Chief Operating Officer Ed
national award, the Shannon Prize, for its Gotgart, and various Town Officials on
innovation and highly touted turnaround numerous occasions to discuss and
results. One outcome of our participation develop plans for solving the many
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
pressing problems arising from spatial filling seats vacated by David Miles (12-
constraints due to increased enrollment year term) and Carol Phalen (5-year term),
but no new building construction. In both dedicated and exemplary members.
September, the School Department At the post-election reorganization
opened The King Elementary School, our meeting in April, the School Committee
ninth elementary school, as a elected Beverly Hugo as Chair, Eric
Kindergarten STEAM (Science, Silverman as Vice Chair, and Heather
Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) Connolly as Clerk.
School.
Conclusion
Interest Based Bargaining In closing, the School Committee would
After years of traditional bargaining like to thank the district-wide teachers,
(called positional bargaining), the staff, and administration who, despite
Framingham Teachers Association, the limited resources and heightened
School Committee, and senior district workload due to increased state and
leadership decided to undergo federal mandates, continue successfully to
professional training in interest-based serve our students with professionalism
bargaining through the Rennie Center for and dedication. We are deeply proud to
Public Policy. The training occurred be a part of this community-wide effort to
throughout the fall. It is the hope of the ensure educational excellence for all of
School Committee that this innovative Framingham’s children. We would like to
training will allow us to reach amicable thank the citizens of Framingham and
and fair contractual agreements by the their elected Town Meeting members and
summer of 2015 for all bargaining units. officials for their ongoing and unwavering
The negotiating team includes Beverly support of the Framingham Public
Hugo, Jim Stockless, and Don Taggart. Schools.
Significant Academic Progress It is truly a privilege to represent the
This past year, all our schools showed Framingham community in supporting
significant and demonstrable progress on our outstanding public schools!
the recent MCAS examinations that were
administered in spring 2014. We are Respectfully submitted,
extremely proud that our flagship school, Beverly K. Hugo, Chair
Framingham High School, ascended two Dr. Eric Silverman, Vice Chair
levels to attain the prestigious “Level 1” Heather Connolly, Clerk
status - the highest level in the state. The Michelle Brosnahan
Barbieri School, our two-way bilingual Andy Limeri
school, rose one level to achieve “Level 2” Jim Stockless
status. It is our hope that the current Donald C. Taggart III
strategic vision and targeted plan (Vision
2020) will result in the entire district
SUPERINTENDENT OF
achieving the coveted “Level 1”
SCHOOLS
accountability status in the near future.
The state of the District is one of
rebuilding after several years of budget
The Committee Members
reductions as well as the general downturn
In March of 2014, Michelle Brosnahan
of the national economy. We are
and Jim Stockless were elected to three-
encouraged that student performance is
year terms to the School Committee,
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
improving across the District with signs of The strength of the tool is the useful
rigor and character development with conversations between administrators and
teachers vigorously engaged with students teachers. Teaching and Learning Alliance
and in improving their craft. Teachers, (TLA) embedded professional
parents and students are engaged in the development and coaching is producing
pursuit of a clear vision of what needs to great results. TLA provides in-school
be done to help improve student coaching and leadership training at
outcomes. We still have much to do but primary and secondary schools
we are confident that we are on the right throughout New England. Formerly
path. With the support of the Town and known as CACD and part of the Eliot-
the broader community, we believe that Pearson Department of Child
the future is very bright for Framingham Development at Tufts University, TLA
students. has a 23-year history pursuing its mission
of ensuring that all children, irrespective
Framingham’s state testing results indicate of background, receive the educational
continued improvement in accountability preparation necessary to become
levels and significant progress in student successful, thoughtful, and engaged
growth and achievement levels. Advances citizens. We are making great strides in
in English Language Arts (ELA) and curriculum redesign and aligning it to the
mathematics were significant from 2012 common core. We continue to
to 2014. At the elementary level for ELA, implement Reader’s Workshop
an increasing number of students instructional model throughout the
exhibited very high growth, meaning the system. Once fully implemented, this
students performed better than 80% of model will help accelerate student
the students who performed similarly over outcomes. New PreK-8 ELA curriculum
the past 3 years. In math, Potter Road and units of studies will be completed by
Elementary School increased the number end of year. New PreK-8 Math curriculum
of students achieving very high growth is being redesigned to meet new
from 9% to 23% and moderate and above standards. We partnered with Discovery
growth from 47% to 66%. The High Ed to assist us in building units and
School students increased the number of lessons in social studies and science
students achieving high growth from 21% curricula. We are expanding curricula to
to 36% and increased moderate and above include STEAM at the King Elementary
growth from 67% to 75% and improved School as well as expanding the current
the DESE rating for FHS from Level III program in place at Fuller. The STEAM
to Level I. Barbieri Elementary School instructional framework offers an
increased its DESE rating from Level III integrated, thematic curriculum reflecting
to Level II and Dunning Elementary deep connections among the classrooms,
School retained its DESE rating of Level I the environment and the real world. The
for the second year in a row. Yet, learning environment will be rigorous, and
Hemenway Elementary School remains the pedagogical model will be inquiry-
one of the top achieving schools in the based instruction. The framework will be
district as its students continue to perform piloted at King and Fuller and overtime
th
in the top 20% percentile of K-5 schools spread across other schools and grade
in the state. levels.
The District implemented a new
Supervision and Evaluation tool this year.
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
BUSINESS procedures are governed by state and
federal special education laws and
ADMINISTRATION
regulations, namely, The Individuals with
The School Business Office provides
Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
financial and administrative support to the
Framingham Public Schools is committed
overall educational program of the School
to the goal of providing an appropriate
Department. The primary function of the
education for students with special needs
office is to provide accounting and
in the least restrictive setting.
oversight of the Town appropriated
School Department Operating Budget,
The following programs and services are
Federal and State Grants as well as
offered by the Framingham Public
Revolving and Special Funds. For the
Schools from Pre-School to High School:
Fiscal Year 2013-14, the Operating
Resource Rooms/In-Class Support,
Budget approved by Town Meeting was
Occupational Therapy, Speech and
$102,115,427. Twenty-six (26) Federal and
Language Therapy, Physical Therapy,
State grants that total over $10,900,000 are
Teacher of the Visually Impaired,
overseen by the Business Office. In
Orientation and Mobility, Adaptive
addition, the Business Office manages
Physical Education, Audiology
seventy (70) Revolving and Special Funds
Consultation.
of the School Department that total
$9,500,000 ensuring that the collection,
There are forty-six substantially separate
accounting and distribution of these funds
classrooms in grades K-12. These
conform to Town guidelines as well as
students require comprehensive
sound business practices.
programming which is provided outside
of the general education classroom for
Business Office staff serves thirty-five
more than 60% of the school day. These
(35) Responsibility Centers by processing
classrooms are located at six of our
over 5,500 purchase orders with a value of
Elementary Schools, all three Middle
over $25,000,000.
Schools along with the High School. This
number also includes the New England
The Business Office is also responsible
Center for Children (NECC) Partnership
for completing and submitting the annual
classroom which provides programming
End of Year Report to DESE which is
for Framingham students who would
the basis for the Town’s receipt of
otherwise by in an out of district
Chapter 70 Aid to Education that totaled
placement. At the BLOCKS Pre-School,
$31,805,023 for FY14.
there are nine substantially separate
classroom sessions. These students are
Edward Gotgart, Chief Operating Officer
also included in general education classes
Chuck Gallo, Director of Finance
and ancillary activities at each building.
SPECIAL EDUCATION
Inclusion programs have been established
PROGRAM at all levels using a variety of approaches
throughout the District, including a grade
The Department of Special Education
level inclusion model. The grade level
provides a broad array of services for
inclusion model maximizes the amount of
students identified with disabilities from
supports that are provided in the
the ages of three through twenty-two.
classroom setting. In addition, some
The referral, evaluation and placement
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
teachers who are dually licensed in Special referred to as English language learners
Education and Elementary Education (ELL). The primary goal of all bilingual
have full time responsibility for Inclusion programming is to provide specialized
classes at the elementary level. instruction in English language
development to enable ELLs to access the
Framingham is a model for Pre-School curriculum and achieve in an English
programs for both children with special dominant environment. Bilingual
needs and typical children ages three to education is an umbrella term which
five. The placement of children with encompasses a variety of different types
special needs in the Pre-School programs of program models. In Framingham,
emphasizes language, communication and models range from Sheltered English
social skills development along with Immersion to Two-Way Bilingual
integration with non-special education Education, to Transitional Bilingual
peers. Education, and include variations on each
of these programs. ELD/ESL services are
Framingham continues to see an increase provided to all ELLs in the SEI programs.
in the number of children with Autism In 2015, approximately 20% of the
and Developmental Delay at the Pre-district’s population is actively monitored
School level. There is a significant or receives direct services in English
increase in the number of students language development from the Bilingual
identified with emotional disabilities at all Education Department. FPS offers
levels. The severity of these disabilities specific programming and support for
presents challenges to the school district 1310 ELLs at all elementary schools, 2
to develop new and innovative programs middle schools, Walsh and Fuller, and at
in order to support these students in the FHS. Overall, close to 30% of the total
public schools. student population comes from a home
where a language other than English is
In conclusion, Framingham has continued spoken.
to implement and provide a
comprehensive continuum of programs, Due to the dedication of the staff and
services, and placement options for success of programming, FPS continues
students with disabilities. Framingham is to be recognized as an educational leader
fortunate to have an active Special in bilingual education. Our staff, from
Education Parent Advisory Council faculty to administration, is solicited for
whose role is to engage parents of input across the state and plays an active
children with disabilities and to advise the role in Department of Elementary and
Special Education Department. Secondary Education sponsored initiatives
for ELLs. We have participated in various
Laura Spear workshops and focus groups to lend a
Director of Special Educationvoice to policy matters through the Urban
ELL Director’s Network and have had
staff both present and attend conferences
BILINGUAL
at the national conferences on World-
EDUCATION PROGRAMS
Class Instructional Design and
The Department of Bilingual Education
Assessment (WIDA), Massachusetts
provides support and services to students
Association of Teachers of Speakers of
in grades K-12 whose primary language is
Other Languages (MATSOL),
not English. This student group is often
Massachusetts Association of Bilingual
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
Educators (MABE) and various other I respectfully submit this brief snapshot
groups. We are also the host district for on behalf of the Bilingual Education
the DESE SEI Endorsement courses and Department.
the district’s ELL coaches and director
have provided training to over 210 Genoveffa P. Grieci, M.Ed.
teachers and administrators since 2013. Director of Bilingual Education
The Bilingual Department also continues
to lend its particular expertise to several
FRAMINGHAM ADULT ESL
Plus
committees in the district reviewing
Plus
Framingham Adult ESL provides
curriculum, assessment, intervention,
critical educational support for parents of
literacy, and data relating to the education
children in The Framingham Pubic
of all students in Framingham.
Schools and for other adults new to the
Framingham community. Improving the
Outreach to parents of ELLs is a major
English language skills of adults, helps to
goal of our department. Framingham
improve educational outcomes for their
Public Schools is committed to supporting
children, strengthens the local economy,
parents of English Language Learners in
and improves the communicative health
matters pertaining to their children’s
of the district as a whole.
education and in providing access to
school-related events and activities. The
Plus
In 2014, Framingham Adult ESL
Bilingual PAC Advisory Council (B-PAC)
enrolled 1422 students over the course of
supports and carries out the work of the
two semesters. Students from more than
Bilingual PAC, Bilingual Education
40 countries attended morning and
Department and school outreach to
evening English as a Second Language
parents of ELLs. During the 2014-2015
classes, citizenship classes, and High
school year, we have joined forces and
School Equivalency classes. An additional
held successful parent events at the
200 students participated in volunteer-led
Framingham Public Library and
preparation classes. The program also
Woodrow Wilson School. The Bilingual
provides computer assisted instruction as
Department in collaboration with the
well as advising support.
Framingham Adult ESLprogram
sponsors courses in ESL for the parents
2014 was the first year of implementation
of our students during the summer. All
of a new Massachusetts High School
these events are funded by the Title III
Equivalency test. The HiSet test replaced
grant. The success of the town-wide B-
the long-standing GED test across the
PAC and the tireless efforts of the school
Plus
state. Framingham Adult ESL staff
district-wide B-PAC Advisory group
worked diligently to implement materials
reflect the extraordinary commitment of
and instruction to help students succeed
the Framingham community’s parents to
with the new assessment.
the education of their children and
strengthens the ongoing communication
Plus
In 2014 Framingham Adult ESLmet or
between school and home.
exceeded all of the Performance Standards
set by the Massachusetts Department of
Education is truly a team effort and it is
Elementary and Secondary Education.
with great admiration and appreciation for
Average attendance was over 85%, far
the efforts of everyone involved, including
exceeding even the advanced DESE
teachers, paraprofessionals, tutors,
standard of 77%. Framingham Adult
parents, students, and administration, that
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
Plus
ESLalso maintains high student TECHNOLOGY
retention levels which are a clear indicator
DEPARTMENT
of student satisfaction. Over the past
The Office of Technology (OT) is
decade, students have stayed with the
responsible for all administrative,
program for an average of more than
instructional, and communications
three and a half semesters, almost enough
technology for the Framingham Public
time for a bachelor’s degree.
Schools. Sixteen locations are supported
on our private fiber-optic wide area
2014 saw a continued shift in the diversity
network (WAN) with over 9,000 users
of our student population. Portuguese
(5,500 network accounts), almost 4,000
speakers now represent 50% of students.
computers, and over 1,000 VoIP (Voice
The number of Spanish speakers has risen
over Internet Protocol) telephones.The
to 26%. Chinese, Arabic, Russian and
Office of Technology is focused on
French Creole speakers are also well-
enhancing and streamlining the teaching
represented in the program.
and learning process with an efficient and
accessible network, a robust and Web-
Plus
Framingham Adult ESLis fortunate to
accessible student data management
be part of the Framingham Public
system, and IP-based and wireless
Schools. The stable infrastructure and
telecommunications. The Office of
educational support provided by the
Technology’s primary purpose is to
school department has allowed
support teaching and learning in the 21st
Plus
Framingham Adult ESL to develop
Century. To this end, we leverage
into one of the largest and most well-
technology to improve the efficiency of
respected adult education programs in the
teaching and learning as well as the
state. Support from the Framingham
efficiency of administration through the
community continues to strengthen our
use of cost saving, innovating
commitment and effectiveness. Our
technologies.
collaborations with other agencies help to
provide students with the resources
This past year, the Office of Technology
necessary to improve their livesand put
used capital funding to upgrade network
down strong roots in Framingham.
infrastructure throughout the schools. OT
is in the process of upgrading connections
th
2014 was also the 30 anniversary year for
between schools to 10GB. In addition,
Plus
Framingham Adult ESL. What began
enhancements to the district wireless
as a grass roots town meeting effort has
network continue to be implemented to
become a strong and vital part of the
expand wireless coverage in each school.
Framingham School Department and the
Additional investments have been made in
community as a whole. A program wide
district-wide network security and internet
celebration featured “30 Words for 30
content filtering.
Years” poems by students and staff. The
student submission below says it best:
OT continues to invest in cloud-based
Believed in me-Cared for me-Changed
tools and virtualization to allow access to
me -Helped me-Learned much-Made
data, documents and applications on a
me feel good-Loved my classes-
24x7 basis from anywhere, with any
Planned my life-Prepared me to help
others that I meet
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
device. Google Apps for Education is the beyond the traditional school day. The
core productivity platform for staff and officeis working to oversee and facilitate
students and the Office of Technology a long range strategic planning process for
and Educational Operations continue to moving the district towards building a
collaborate to increase access to digital robust out of school time program.A
content and to allow students to access feasibility study conducted last spring
curriculum and assignments online. identified potential opportunities for
creating a sustainable out-of-school time
OT distributed more technology to the
program inFramingham. CRD is
hands of students and staff, leveraging currently working with the Executive
technologies such as tablets and other Service Corps of New England to develop
mobile devices. Across the district, the
a financial model to move the work
Office of Technology has placed IPads,
forward. Currently over 2,250
Chromebooks and Android devices in Framingham Public Schools students
schools for shared use. Additional student participate in out of school time
learning devices were distributed to the
programming.
elementary and middle schools in the
form of mobile carts. Each cart contains
FINE AND PERFORMING
25 Chromebooks with device charging
ARTS
capabilities. The majority of schools
The Arts are alive in the Framingham
received two mobile Chromebook carts.
Public Schools. In music we continue to
With the seamless integration of Google
rebuild our elementary school band
Apps for Education, students have shown
program. Seventy five percent of the
increased enthusiasm and productivity.
students in grade five are currently
enrolled in our band program during the
As a Race to the Top district, we have
school day. In the K-5 general music
implemented software services to build in
classes we have introduced an exciting
efficiencies and automation. With a
new online curriculum. Quaver Music is
continued focus on moving towards a
an interactive platform that brings music
digital environment, the Office of
alive for our students and is an
Technology continues to evaluate
exceptional tool for our teachers.
workflows and processes across the
district in an effort to create a seamless
Our middle school bands and chorus
flow of data and communications and
programs continue to grow and each
reduce duplication of tasks.
middle school also has a vibrant after-
school Jazz Band component. Strings are
George Carpenter
offered to all students starting in grade six.
Director of Technology
At FHS, our in school program includes,
Concert Band, Madrigals, Concert Choir,
COMMUNITY RESOURCE
AP Music Theory, Piano and Guitar.
DEVELOPMENT
Two of our students were selected to
perform as a part of the MMEA All State
The Office of Community Resource
orchestra. Two vocal students and three
Development (CRD) oversees the districts
band students participated in the MMEA
out of school time programs. The goal of
District concert. The marching band has
out of school programming is to provide
won several medals at state wide festival
enrichment and support to students
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
and hosted a marching band festival at MET Musical Theater competition and
Bowditch Field in the Fall. Both our band will compete in the METG Middle School
and chorus ensembles participate in one act competition in the spring. Fuller
several adjudicated festivals including has also added a show choir as an
MICCA. Our two high school jazz bands additional performance opportunity for
also participated in the Massachusetts Jazz our middle school students.
Education Festival. The Show Choir and
Girls A Capella groups entertain at many
TRANSPORTATION
different venues around Framingham after
DEPARTMENT
school.
The Transportation Department provides
a vital service for the Framingham Public
Our Visual Arts Department presents a
Schools. Over five thousand nine
K-12 Visual Arts show in March at the
hundred public school students utilize bus
Framingham Public Library. Over 200
transportation on a daily basis. The
pieces of Art, both 2D and 3D are on
transportation office continues to work
display. Many of our elementary schools
diligently to ensureour students safe and
also enter the Worcester Art Month Show
efficient transport. Massachusetts
and the Massachusetts Art Educators
General Law requires the School
Show held in Worcester and Boston. In
Departments to provide transportation to
addition, 11 of our FHS artists were
all children outside two miles of each
recognized by the Scholastic Arts Awards
respective district school in grades K -
and their work will be displayed at the
6.To that end, Framingham provides
Museum School in Boston. Our
school transportation to over two
curricular offerings have expanded to
hundred students in non-public schools in
include Ceramics, Painting and Sculpture
Framingham. Due to budget constraints,
classes.
the School Department moved to a fee-
based transportation program eleven years
In our Theater Arts department one of
ago for those students in grades 7 – 12.
our students received an honorable
The district does have limited seats
mention in the Massachusetts Educational
available for purchase for students who
Theater Monologue Scholarship held in
live within 2 miles for grades K – 12.
December. The Framingham High
School Drama Company continues to
The District’s Transportation Department
perform well in the METG annual one act
successfully entered into our fourth year
competition. The troupe has entered the
of a five year contract with Durham
competition for the past 12 years and has
School Services. The Transportation
been a state finalist in each of the past 10
Department works closely with the
years. New course opportunities have
Framingham Police Department's Safety
been added, includingTheater for Young
Division, the Framingham Fire
Audiences and Theater for Social Change
Department and the Department of
as well as Musical Theater.
Public Works.
Theater has also been added to the
Rick Gallagher
curriculum at all three of our Middle
Transportation Director
Schools. Students are immersed in the art
of speaking and listening with a direct tie
to the Common Core. All three Middle
Schools entered their musicals into the
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS was installed,* master clock system was
installed.*
The Buildings and Grounds Department
(B&G) currently maintains sixteen school-
Fuller Middle School: A Statement of
owned buildings comprised of 1,655,076
Interest was submitted to the MSBA
square feet of building space and 265
requesting funding for a Feasibility Study
acres of grounds, including athletic playing
for repair/replacement of the Fuller
fields, paved driveways, walkways, parking
Middle School. An ADA compliant ramp
lots and wooded areas.
was installed at the rear of the building
and classroom furniture was replaced in 4
The department employs 62 custodians, 9
rooms.* Portions of deteriorated air
maintenance personnel, 3 office support
supply duct work was replaced and
staff, a maintenance foreman and a
additional sections were repaired, cleaned
director. Department objectives are as
and reinsulated.
follows: adhere to safety and health
standards; provide cleaning and
Cameron Middle School: Emergency
maintenance inside and outside of
replacement of hot water system was
building structures; ensure security of
required. Updated Tridium webservers
buildings; plan for and monitor efficient
were installed to support the (DDC)
use; provide year-round maintenance of
energy conservation program,* a master
grounds. In addition to routine
clock system was installed,* relined sump
maintenance and cleaning of all buildings,
tank for cooling tower,* library roof
a summary of major projects by building
repairs were performed.
is as follows including projects funded
Barbieri Elementary School: An ADA
through capital project appropriation
compliant lift was installed in the
(noted by an asterisk):
auditorium,* 15 cafeteria tables were
replaced,* plaster repairs were performed.
District: A stake body truck and 2 utility
trucks were purchased via capital
Brophy Elementary School: A master
funding.*
clock system was installed,* bathroom
partitions and remodel was performed,
Framingham High School: A shelving
gymnasium floor was refinished.
system for the Athletics Department
Equipment Room was installed,* updated
Dunning Elementary School: Updated
Tridium webservers were installed to
Tridium webservers were installed to
support the Digital Direct Control (DDC)
support the (DDC) energy conservation
energy conservation program,* walk-in
program,* Board of Health compliant
refrigerator was installed in the kitchen,*
three compartment kitchen sink installed.*
an ADA compliant exterior railing was
Hemenway Elementary School: An ADA
installed*, electrical trench and manhole
compliant exterior handrail was installed*
repair was performed.
storage tank replaced,* gymnasium floor
was refinished, masonry repairs were
Walsh Middle School: Driveway paving
performed.
performed,* safety glass was replaced,
gang toilets were renovated, ADA
Juniper Hill School: Asbestos floor tile
compliant door hardware was installed,*
was replaced* and the office was
ADA compliant exterior railing was
remodeled.
installed,* ADA compliant interior signage
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
King Building: The King Building was The Department of Family and
th
reopened as the District’s 9elementary
Community Engagement
school. Paving replacement and storm
Family and Community Engagement
water construction was performed*,
(FACE) is the department responsible for
partial glass and window shade
supporting meaningful engagement
replacement, kindergarten furniture and
opportunities among schools, parents and
cafeteria tables were purchased* ADA
members of the Framingham Community.
compliant exterior railings installed.*
These engagement opportunities are
security access door systems installed,
tailoredto support and increase academic
intercom installed, gymnasium floor was
achievement for Framingham Public
refinished, masonry repairs performed.
School students. There are four main
areas under the umbrella of Family and
McCarthy Elementary School: Masonry
Community Engagement: Parent
repairs were performed and air
Information Center (PIC), Early
conditioning was installed in the library.
Childhood Alliance of Framingham
(ECAF), McKinney Vento Homeless
Potter Road Elementary School: Updated
Education Assistance and the Compliance
Tridium webservers were installed to
of the Compulsory Attendance Law.
support the (DDC) energy conservation
During the 2014-2015 school year
program,* ADA compliant signage
members of FACE will draft a strategic
installed,* masonry repairs performed.
plan in alignment with Vision 2020,
Excellence and Equity, which will drive
Stapleton Elementary School: Sinks and
current and new initiatives for the Family
toilets were replaced.
and Community Engagement Division of
the Framingham Public Schools.
Thayer Campus: An HVAC dehumidifier
unit was installed* and oil tank removed.*
The Parent Information Center (PIC) is
the area devoted to registration and
Transportation Building: Repair of office
school assignment for all students who
trailer roof and floor, carpet replacement
attend Framingham Public Schools. In
and painting.
order to fulfill PIC’s mission of providing
students and families with a one stop shop
Woodrow Wilson Elementary School:
that offers enrollment and placement
Relined sump tank for cooling towers.*
services for all qualified students into
Framingham Public Schools, staff
It is important to note that a long-term 25
members of PIC work closely with other
year capital facilities plan is utilized in
departments in the district including:
planning for the future needs in the
Transportation, Health Services, Food
District.
Services, Technology, Special Education,
Office of Bilingual Education and district
Matthew Torti, Director of Buildings and
leadership. In addition, PIC also works
Grounds
closely with Framingham pre-schools,
Ernest Moreau, Maintenance Foreman
head start, daycare centers as well as
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
community-based agencies. Along with communication providing linkages to
the support of other departments, PIC community, regional and statewide
provides the following services: the FACEresources.
of the Framingham Public Schools to new
and existing families enrolled in the school The McKinney Vento Homeless
district and providing critical resources Education Assistance Act (1987)is a
and information to all families; federal law that ensures immediate
registration and placement for all students enrollment and educational stability for
entering grades K-12; processing student homeless children and youth.
transportation applications and Framingham Public Schools has a
transportation fees; processing student McKinney Vento Homeless Education
transfer requests; processes placements Liaison. The local liaison serves as one of
for English Language Learner and Special the primary contacts between homeless
Education students; reviews all medical families and school staff, district
and immunization requirements. personnel, shelter workers, and other
service providers.
The Early Childhood Alliance of
Framingham (ECAF) is a collaboration of The liaison coordinates services to ensure
community advocates who believe in and that homeless children and youth enroll in
actively promote early education. ECAF’s school and have the opportunity to
Vision: Framingham is a welcoming succeed academically.The homeless
community for families and professionals liaison assures expedited support and
that provides access to comprehensive placement to families covered under this
resources and support for the healthy act by providing immediate school
growth and development of our children. placement based on the best interest of
the student; immediate transportation
The Coordinated Family and Community assistance; immediate assistance with
Engagement Program is a program that locating required registration documents
supports families, educators and before and after placement; support with
community agencies in identifying and community resources to help meet the
locating resources for parents and young student’s and family needs. Parents/
children birth through age eight. guardians and unaccompanied youth are
fully informed of all transportation
The Parent Child Home Program a services, including transportation to and
nationally recognized early literacy from the school of origin, and are assisted
program that provides home visits to in accessing transportation services;
teach early literacy activities to families enrollment disputes are mediated in
with young children ages 18 months to accordance with the requirements of the
three years old. McKinney-Vento Act; Collaborating and
coordinating with State Coordinators for
Provider and Educator Support Servicesthe Education of Homeless Children and
ensures access to opportunities for early Youth and community and school
childhood directors and educators to personnel responsible for providing
receive, share and exchange information education and related support services to
through a variety of means such as:homeless children and youth.
directors’ collaborative, email and peer-to-
peer support networks, curriculum FACE also oversees the Supervisor of
exchanges, guest speakers and ongoing Attendance, who is responsible for
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
ensuring that students attend school the needs of identified students. In this
regularly. The supervisor of attendance is setting, Sage provides a differentiated
also responsible for providing support and program of work which is based on
recommending resources to students with abstract thinking skills, independent
attendance concernsinvestigation, thinking skill behaviors, and
.
skills for self-help. Sage classes are
GIFTED AND TALENTED
interdisciplinary in nature, involve
thematic study that is based on Common
DEPARTMENT/SAGE
Core standards and is part of the core
SERVICES
academic program essential for proper
Sage services work in collaboration with
growth and development. To promote
other school departments to differentiate
quality educational practices across the
curriculum and instruction for students so
curriculum and throughout the district to
they may maximize their potential. Two
maximize student potential the Sage
methods are used to deliver services:
Department: focuses on the academic,
Classroom Integration Grades K-8 and/or
social, and emotional characteristics of
Pull-out Services Grades 2-8. Sage
gifted and talented learners to address
services exist in all elementary and middle
their unique learning needs; utilizes data to
schools. The integration component not
target and engage all learners; infuses
only provides for the modifications
critical and creative thinking skills to
necessary for the individual needs of
increase the level of cognitive complexity;
identified students, it also provides
provides training to and partner with
opportunities for thinkingskill
classroom teachers, specialists and
development for all students. The Sage
support staff to differentiate instruction;
staff serves as a resource for classroom
fosters strategies to facilitate student
teachers providing materials, lessons, and
motivation, perseverance, tolerance for
learning centers based on the integration
rigor, and productivity, and; identifies and
of thinking skills and differentiated
promotes best practices to cultivate high
practices into the grade level content.
standards, high engagement and high
performance within a growth mindset for
The pull-out component is developed in a
best results.
prescriptive sense to address and support
JP.KRTVS
OSEPH EEFE EGIONAL ECHNICAL OCATIONAL CHOOL
750 Winter Street, Framingham, MA | 508-416-2100 | info@jpkeefehs.org
This annual report is prepared by This report reviews from the perspective
Superintendent /Director, Jonathan of the Committee the principle items with
Evans, and composed on behalf of thewhich the Committee was concerned
members of the School Committee of the during the year. It is a representative
South Middlesex Regional Vocational account of matters solely within the policy
Technical SchoolDistrict and making authority of the Committee and
submitted after review and approval by also of matters which the
the full Committee in compliance with the Superintendent/Director brought before
provisions of the Agreement among the the Committee for information and
towns of Ashland, Framingham,consultation. For greater detail and
Holliston, Hopkinton and Natick. discussion the reader should read the
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
extended minutes of Committee meetings Carpentry –
and the attachments thereto which are Holliston Historical Society – Replaced
available at the school office. garage roof
Ashland Housing Authority – Repaired
In addition to a public high school, the sign and built shed
South Middlesex Regional Vocational Framingham MWRTA – Built 4 x 8 bus
Technical School District provides shelter
continuing education opportunities for Framingham Housing - Sided addition
adults through the Keefe at Night Electrical -
Program as well as Summer Discover, a Framingham Parks and Recreation –
summer program for area youth. Electrical work on facilities building
Framingham Housing – Electrical work
The Committee acknowledges with great for rough and finish completed
appreciation the service of its Recording Framingham Police Station – Electrical
Secretary, Elaine O’Toole, whose careful work on the new motorcycle garage
recording of the minutes of the Hopkinton House Project – Electrical
Committee Meetings makes possible the work performed
preparation of this annual report. Plumbing-
Hopkinton House Project – Plumbing
The Committee reorganized on June 2, work performed
2014 with officers elected unanimously to Metal Fabrication-
the following positions: Framingham Parks and Recreation –
Completed backhoe bucket repair and
Chair: John Kahn (Framingham) repaired tool box on a truck
Vice-Chair: Edward Burman (Ashland) Framingham Parks and Recreation –
Secretary: Frank D’Urso (Hopkinton) Repaired tool boxes for town trucks
Replaced by Sarah Commerford Framingham Parks and Recreation –
(Holliston) in November Repaired cemetery fence
Assistant Treasurer: John H. Evans Town of Framingham – Fabricated bike
(Framingham) rack and 12 satellite receiver covers.
Repaired trailer gate
Staff members working on behalf of the Framingham Youth Initiative – Fabricated
District and School Committee are Elaine heart sculpture for Boston Marathon
O’Toole, Recording Secretary and Jack Ashland Police Department – Fabricated
Keating, Treasurer. battering ram
Graphic Communication - Printing for
The balance of this report presents a 13 Schools within the District
summary of the discussions and actions of Ashland Housing Authority – Repaired
the Committee on a number of the sign
important matters brought before the
Committee for advice or action.
In addition, in June Keefe Regional
Community Engagement Technical School hosted a breakfast for
Staff and students of Keefe Regional the Community Based Justice Program
Technical School participated in many (CBJ) that included District Attorney
community projects throughout the Marian Ryan, Judges, Probation, School
school district member towns. Examples Officials and area Police Departments.
of these activities include:
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
It should also be noted that all five district communication capacity and internet
town high school’s swimming teams speed.
practice and compete at the Keefe
swimming pool. The pool is also used by The end of life phone system was
the Framingham and Natick Park and completely converted with back-up
Recreation Departments. systems installed. New phones provide
teachers the ability to receive voice
messages from parents, a feature they did
Administration
not have prior to the conversion.
On January 4, 2014, Jonathan Evans
began in the role of Superintendent
School Improvement Plans
Director, after 19 years of service to the
The School Improvement Plan for the
district.
2014-2015 school year embodies specific
performance objectives as follows: 1)
The School Committee adopted goals for
Creating professional development
the Superintendent’s performance
schedules that are based on areas of
evaluation period from July 1, 2014
needed training for all faculty and staff, 2)
through June 30, 2015. The goals adopted
Strengthening the instructional strategies
related to the following: Educator
of all teachers to best accommodate
Evaluation, Community and Professional
differences in student learning styles, 3)
Relations, Facility Needs Assessment,
Fully transitioning to Naviance, a web-
School Safety and Common
based college and career planning
Core/PARCC.
program, for all students, 4) Analyzing
attendance data to determine patterns and
The Committee will complete its periodic
trends and increase proactive strategies
evaluation of the Superintendent’s
regarding consistent school attendance for
accomplishments against established goals
all students, 5) Developing District
and desired qualities established in the
Determined Measures for pre and post
DESE Rubric. The complete record of
evaluations in all Career and Technical
that evaluation is a public document that
Programs, 6) Implementing a tiered
will be available at the South Middlesex
approach for students who experience
Regional School District Superintendent’s
learning or behavior challenges in
Office.
adherence with the Massachusetts Tiered
System of Support.
Technology
The technology infrastructure at Keefe
Professional development topics in 2014
Regional Technical School required
included Special Education Plan
changes and improvements to facilitate
Development and Inclusion Services,
the goal of a completely wireless
Non-Traditional Student Recruitment in
environment. All PC’s were retrofitted
Career and Tech Ed, Curriculum
with a wireless card and new replacement
Framework Alignment, Health and
units were purchased as wireless laptops
Wellness, and Differentiated Instruction.
or tablet devices. Specific changes also
included transitioning to a mostly cloud
The Committee reviewed the progress
based server configuration, the reduction
toward the goals of the 2013 -2014 School
and replacement of facility technology
Improvement Plan. The report of Interim
switches, the installation of fiber optic
Principal Snow noted tangible specific
cabling creating a substantial increase in
improvements in: 1) Common pre and
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
post assessments in MCAS subject areas, Auditor’s Report
2)Alignment to the new WIDA standardsThe annual audit by the independent
in academic classes, 3) Increased content accounting firm of McCarthy & Hargrave
based instruction in MCAS subjects in is in the process of preparing the financial
Special Education classes, 4) The statements for committee review. During
inclusion of additional math and English the preliminary process no material
teaching strategies in Career and Technical findings were disclosed. It is expected
Programs, 5) The implementation of the that the audit report that calculates our
Common Core State Standards and 6) energy project will meet the stipulated
Early College Awareness initiatives guarantee benchmarks for the 2013-14
through the Guidance Department. year.
Handbook Business Office
The Committee approved revisions to the The Business Office staff of the South
Student Handbook that had previously Middlesex Regional Vocational Technical
been approved by the School Council. A School District has continued to provide
new protected category, gender identity, efficiencies within the daily operations.
was included throughout the handbook, Human resource management, employee
and the area of school discipline was benefits programs, procurement practices,
updated pursuant to MGL c. 71 §37H3/4, contract proposals, grant fund accounting,
which outlines provisions of grant management, student cafeteria
communication and due process in management, student nutrition, budget
student discipline. preparation and management, continuing
education registration and inventory
The Budget Processcontrol are all components of the business
The Budget Sub-Committee members Mia office operations that have undergone
Crandall, William Gaine, Dr. Stephen improvements and efficiencies.
Kane, A.J. Mulvey, Michael Rossi (Budget
Sub-Committee Chair), and Barry Sims A successful enrollment and transition to
are beginning the FY16 budget The West Suburban Health Group was
development process. completed. This organization is
comprised of 17 area municipalities who
In 2014, the Superintendent continued the purchase the health insurance in an
practice of meeting informally early in the efficient cost effective manner. As a
budget process with the financial officers result of this new affiliation, the District
of the member towns to develop mutual can now offer health insurance plans that
awareness of both municipal budget compete with the GIC benchmark
constraints and the efforts of the programs and with multiple plan design
Committee to manage the school options for employees.
efficiently and effectively while
recognizing those limitations. The Siemens’ Energy Conservation Project
Committee continued to consider Performance Year 6: June 2013 to May
reductions in the preliminary budget and 2014 Siemens Industry (Siemens) provided
the budgetof $17,165,750 as submitted the South Middlesex Regional Vocational
to the member towns for FY15 was Technical School District an energy
approved by all. savings guarantee report. This report
details the guarantee period savings by
means of comparing the guaranteed
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
energy savings versus the realized energy Between the months of June and
savings. Our Energy Performance December 2014, Keefe Regional
Contract with Siemens guaranteed Technical School completed a full roof
$715,315 in annual operational and energy replacement. The prior roof was 27 years
savings which will be confirmed within old and very much in need of
the audited financial statements. replacement. The district received
approval from the Massachusetts School
Enrollment, Recruiting and Student Building Authority (MSBA) at a
Retention reimbursement rate of 69.89%. The
Keefe Regional Technical School is a project was completed with the
school of application. Maintaining a unanimous support of our five member
healthy enrollment of students for our day towns. This project was completed well
school operation is essential for our under budget and will serve our district
financial support and overall operational for decades to come.
success. Our enrollment has increased
this year and we are expecting further An extensive upgrade of energy systems
improvements in the future. The (HVAC and lighting), completed in 2007,
Superintendent has indicated that he has resulted in the replacement of major
believes that the quality and rigor of our mechanical components controlled by a
school programs and the safety and comprehensive energy management
culture of our school environment will system. The project has resulted in a
lead to our success in attracting students significant reduction in total utility
and their families to Keefe Regional expenditures.
Technical School. The Superintendent has
emphasized that the administration, In addition to the roof replacement
faculty and support staff must work project, facility upgrades that were
together to ensure that Keefe Regional completed in 2014 include replacement of
Technical School continues to be the facility telephone communication
recognized by our community as a career system (fiber optic cabling, hardware and
and technical school of high quality. We software components), renovation of the
have improved and will continue to Cosmetology Program, replacement of the
improve our marketing strategies, auditorium sound system, renovation of
communication with our school district the gym locker rooms, the addition of
sending town middle and high schools, eight cameras to the existing surveillance
and connection to prospective students system, replacement/reconfiguration of
and their families. The enrollment on the main office work stations, retrofitting
October 1 of 2014 was 709 students of shop areas for an HVACR Continuing
reflecting a slight increase from the Education course, replacement of a
previous year. vehicle lift in the Automotive Program
and the installation of a new combination
Buildings and Grounds oven in the Culinary Program.
Keefe Regional Technical School has been
occupied continuously since September of Facility projects identified for future
1973. The facility is used not only during consideration include replacing suspended
the school day and year but also evenings, ceiling systems, renovating our Resource
weekends and during the summer months. Center, repairing, crack filling and sealing
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
the parking lot, repairing/updating the Kansas City, MO where he finished 10th
auditorium lighting system, replacing the in the nation.
emergency generator, expanding the
For the sixth year in a row, the Keefe
surveillance system, pressure washing and
Drama Club produced a play for the
sealing the exterior building concrete and
school and the community. The 2014
replacing essential vehicles.
performance was 12 Angry Jurors,
Adapted by Sherman L. Sergel. Rehearsals
Student Achievement
started in November and ran through
The District received from the DESE its
February. Twenty five students in grades
annual report detailing Keefe’s 2014
9-12, including cast members,
Accountability Data. From 2012 to 2014
backstage/lighting crew, and makeup
in ELA the number of students scoring at
artists participated in the performances.
proficient or above increased by 7%. For
All performances were well attended.
math the number of students failing
decreased by 4%. This fall, Keefe
The 2013-2014 school year was the first
Technical School was informed that
year of offering Project Lead the Way
according to the 5-level scaling systems
(PLTW) courses at Keefe Regional
created by the DESE under the
Technical School. Introduction to
accountability and assistance levels, Keefe
Engineering Design was offered to
has been categorized as a Level 2 school.
students in grades 9 and 11. Our students
Schools with an accountability status of
saw great success in the first year of
Level 2 are able to independently analyze
PLTW course. Over half of the students
disaggregated data for all student groups
scored in the top 65th percentile of a
to ensure interventions and supports are
national assessment, with one student
appropriately aligned to address needs,
th
scoring in the 94percentile. We have
review the performance of students with
added the second course in the PLTW
disabilities, and consider improvement or
series this year, and look forward to
capacity building activities, as appropriate.
continued success in the program in the
On Wednesday, February 26, 2014, 636 coming years.
students competed in the SkillsUSA
District Competition held at Keefe General Advisory Board
Regional Technical School. Of the The General Advisory Board consists of
competitors, 98 were Keefe students who the Chair of each Vocational Advisory
competed in Internetworking, Web Board. The General Board summarizes
Design, Practical Nursing, and Graphic and brings to the attention of the
Communications. Keefe students earned 9 administration and the School Committee
gold, 7 silver and 8 bronze medals. 25% observations and recommendations of the
of the Keefe competitors earned medals. advisory boards. The points noted for the
current year include: the need to
At the State SkillsUSA Conference in
continually align the curriculum with
May, Keefe Regional Technical School
changes in technology; outreach to bring
was awarded 1 Gold medal in Plumbing, 4
Keefe’s program to potential students;
Silver medals in Screen Printing, First Aid
increasing opportunities for students and
and CPR, Restaurant Service and Sheet
employers in the co-op program;
Metal. A Keefe Plumbing student
successful pursuit of grant funding for
competed at the National Conference in
state of the art vocational equipment; and
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
maintaining the license status of student
professional programs that advance Keefe FRAMINGHAM
students’ vocational entry opportunities. Nelson Goldin
Michael Rossi
New School Committee Members John Kahn - Chairman
In August of 2014, after three years of Linda Fobes
dedicated service representing the Town James Cameau
of Hopkinton, Mr. Frank D’Urso resigned A.J. Mulvey
from the School Committee. The John Evans
Selectman of Hopkinton appointed Mia Larry Cooper
Crandall as their town’s new
representative. HOPKINTON
Frank D’Urso replaced by Mia Crandall
Respectfully submitted, Ruth Knowles
Jonathan Evans
Superintendent-DirectorHOLLISTON
Sarah Commerford
SOUTH MIDDLESEX REGIONAL Barry Sims
VOCATIONAL TECHNICAL
SCHOOL COMMITTEE NATICK
ASHLAND Tassos Filledes
Edward Burman Dr. Stephen Kane
William N. Gaine, Jr.
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
FPL
RAMINGHAM UBLIC IBRARY
49 Lexington St. (Main) | 508-532-5570 | library.public@framinghamma.gov
Improvements to facilities, advancements process contributing both their heartfelt
in technology, increases in programming, support and thoughtful ideas to the
securing of grants, development of new project. With tremendous assistance from
collections, and breaking ground for the Town Counsel, the Town Procurement
new Christa McAuliffe Branch Library and Facilities Management Departments,
highlighted a very successful 2014 at the the project was successfully put out to
Framingham Public Library. public bidding. On October 10th the
construction firm of Lupachino &
Building the New Christa McAuliffe Salvatore Inc. of Bloomfield CT. was
Library determined to be the qualified low bidder
The Building Committee, working closelyfor the project.
with our architects, Owner’s Project
Manager, staff from the Massachusetts Despite rain from the tail end of a
Board of Library Commissioners, and nor’easter, over 100 supporters of the
Library Trustees worked steadily Framingham Public Library Foundation
throughout the year to refine the building gathered at 746 Water Street in Nobscot
design in preparation to put the project on October 23rd for the groundbreaking
out to bid. ceremony for the new Christa McAuliffe
In conjunction with the $7,988,329.00Branch Library. Library patrons,
voted to fund the project by Town members of the Board of Selectmen, State
Meeting Members, the Town receivedand Town officials, and library staff, all
three installments ($2,511,936.00) of a participated in wielding a shovel to “break
$4.2 Construction Grant from the ground” at the event. Significantly,
Massachusetts Board of Library Christa McAuliffe’s family was well
Commissioners. The grant will be used to represented when her nephew Mark
offset the total project cost for the Town. Bristol, her sister Lisa Bristol, and her
brother Christopher Corrigan joined with
We are most appreciative of the supportFramingham Town Manager Robert J.
and cooperation the project continues to Halpin to celebrate this project milestone.
receive from numerous Town
Departments, Boards and CommissionsasMeanwhile, the Framingham Public
we worked through the planning, design Library Foundation continued to work
and permitting process. We are especially diligently toward the goal of raising
appreciative of the input and support $600,000 in support of this project. We
received from the Town of Framingham are appreciative to all that gave generously
Planning Board. Board members, in their to the project and to everyone that
official jurisdiction, made requests of ourattended the numerous fundraising events
designers that will undoubtedly contributesponsored by the Foundation. Please visit
to the overall success of this project. The the Foundation’s link on the Library’s web
Library Building Committee also page to learn how your generosity can
expresses its appreciation to the numerous help us reach our goal.
citizens of Framingham who were in Improving Accessibility
attendance throughout the permitting The new Lexington Street entrance,
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
generously funded by Town Meeting, was installed at both the Main and Branch
completed in September. Demolition of libraries.
the parking garage and construction of the
stairs, ramp and new surface parking lot We installed new printers for our patrons
would inconvenience library users for including a wireless one that allows
many months. Library patrons were patrons to print easily from smart phones,
patient and understanding throughout the tablets and laptops.
construction as they coped with finding
on-street parking in the busy downtown. We added the capability for library
Several businesses and organizations patrons to apply for a library card online
approximate to the Library generously which then results in immediate access to
provided our patrons access to their our digital services and resources.
parking facilities during construction.
We built upon a successful first year of
On September 3rd Library patrons, migrating to a Radio Frequency
Building Committee members, and Identification (RFID) environment to
members from the Town Disabilities expedite Collection and Circulation
Commission were present when Board of management services. We once again
Selectmen member Charles J. Sisitsky cut deployed the “Library Summer Youth
a ceremonial ribbon officially re-opening Corp” to install RFID tags in books and
this entrance to the Library.A/V materials. The Corp, consisting of
six young people, tagged over 55,000
New Collections and Technology items. We developed a comprehensive
The Library improved its collections and phased plan for the next steps in RFID
technology services to the public in implementation including deployment of
several waysthis year. The Reference hardware that “captures” the significant
Department continued to transition from efficiencies that RFID provides at
print resources to online resources. circulation points.
Databases to support entrepreneurs,
businesses, students and job seekers were In the coming year, RFID holds the
added to the collection. Thirty-six eBooks promise of tremendous advancements in
were added to the Gale Virtual Reference customer service, inventory management,
Library covering the topics of business, and Collection security.
health, travel and more.
Finally, we upgraded our servers, switches
The Library launched the exciting new and software to ensure a network that is
online resources Hoopla and Zinio. robust and secure for staff and patrons.
These collections provide library patrons We wish to express our appreciation to
the Town Technology Services
with thousands of movies, television
shows, magazines, music and audiobooks Department for their assistance with this
for free. Because this service can be and many other improvements
accessed from home, or the office, and throughout the year.
from mobile devices, it has re-positioned
the Library to be a 24/7 operation. Unique Programs and Services
The Library fulfilled its commitment of
We upgraded our wireless network to addressing the unique needs of a diverse
keep pace with patron demand for this community with specialized services.
service. New Wi-Fi access points were
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
The Library’s Homework Center participated in each of the October and
continued to offer free tutoring and March programs. Support for this
homework to all Framingham students, program was provided in part through the
elementary through high school. This generosity of its membership. The
afterschool program hasassisted hundreds Danforth Museum, the Boys and Girls
of students with school assignments while Club, and the Callahan Senior Center all
reinforcing the Library’s role as an collaborated in the success of this
essential resource in their educational program.
pursuits.
The Library’s adult programming was
The Literacy Unlimited program once again diverse and attracted large and
provides a solid, comprehensive program enthusiastic audiences. Our missionis to
for training and supporting volunteers to provide a variety of cultural and
teach basic reading, writing and/or math informational programs that educate,
skills to adult learners, including those for entertain, and enrich our audiences. FPL
whom,English is a foreign language.is one of the few libraries in the
Dedicated to increasing public awareness Commonwealth to offer Friday evening
of the need to eliminate illiteracy in our programming. Our Friday Night Film
community and expanding the availability Series regularly attracts large and
of educational programs that accomplish enthusiastic crowds. Our Sunday Concert
this. The program is based on the belief Series and Summer Concert Series provide
that literacy strengthens society and a variety of classical and popular music
promotes equality among its members. with emerging artiststhat regularly attracts
capacity crowds. Our weekday evening
Reaching out to the Community
events have included programs on a great
The Library collaborated with many
variety of subjects including use of Social
organizations responding to community
Media, Poetry, Opera, Historical events,
needs and providing a wide variety of
Broadway Theatre, Cooking programs,
educational and enriching programs. This
Poetry workshops, Author visits,
year, 8,871 people attended 286 Library
Documentary films, etc. At the request of
sponsored adult programs at the Main
many patrons, we started a new Thursday
Library, an increase of 25 programs over
afternoon Movie Matinee and a new
the previous year. Highlights of the year
writing workshop program. We
included the expanding community
appreciate the efforts of our local media,
participation in our two Lifelong Learning
newspapers, and online forums in helping
Programs that are collaborations with
us publicize our programs to the
Framingham State University. Our
community. Thanks to the many
Lifelong Learning Lecture Series
volunteers who have assisted Library staff
presented 20 lectures by scholars fromthe
in making these programs possible and
University as well as other colleges and
especially to the Friends of the
universities in the area. Lectures on a
Framingham Library who financially
variety of topics were given on Thursday
support our efforts. We also appreciate
evenings at the Library and attendance
the financial support from local
once again increased substantially over the
businesses, the Framingham Cultural
previous year. The daytime classes for
Council and several local foundations that
seniors, held on Tuesdays in March and
have helped defray the costs of
October were so popular that we had to
programming. Contributions from local
limit registration. More than 200 seniors
markets, especially Whole Foods and
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
Trader Joe’s, have enabled us to serve Doherty, Vice Chair; Maria Barry,
refreshments at adult programs. Secretary; and Arthur Finstein, Treasurer.
The other Trustees are, Nancy Colville-
Friends of the LibraryWallace, Robert Dodd, Jan Harrington,
The Friends of the Framingham Library Ruth Winett and Christopher Walsh.
Association, Inc. continued their long
tradition of dedicated work on behalf of We appreciate Town Meeting’s
the Library. The Friends, through their recognition of the importance of our
monthly book sales, raised thousands of libraries to citizens of all ages. We also
dollars to support collections, programs value the ongoing support of the Board of
and special projects.There are numerous Selectmen, Town Manager, Assistant
and rewarding volunteer opportunities Town Manager, Chief Financial Officer,
that will fit just about anyone’s schedule. Town Counsel, and the collegiality and
Please consider joining this essential tremendous support of other Town
organization! Departments. We also appreciate the
support of the Finance Committee, the
Library Trustee News Planning Board, and the Standing
In April, incumbents Arthur Finstein, Committee on Education, Capital
Samuel Klaidman, and Jo-Anne Budgets, DisabilityCommission, Ways
Thompson were re-elected to serve as and Means and other committees.
Trustees for three-year terms. Elizabeth
Roy was elected to a three-year term as a Respectfully submitted,
write-in candidate. For the Board of Library Trustees
Mark J. Contois, Director of Libraries
In May, the Trustees elected the following
officers: Elizabeth Fideler, Chair; Eric
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
GENERAL COMMITTEES
CAC|CBC|CC
ABLE DVISORY OMMITTEE APITAL UDGET OMMITTEE ULTURAL OUNCIL
CCAC|DC|EGCT
USHING HAPEL DVISORY OMMITTEE ISABILITY OMMISSION DGELL ROVE EMETERY RUSTEES
FC|GSC|HDC|H
INANCE OMMITTEE OVERNMENT TUDY OMMITTEE ISTORIC ISTRICT OMMISSION ISTORICAL
C|HRC|RPC|TA
OMMISSION UMAN ELATIONS OMMISSION EAL ROPERTY OMMITTEE ECHNOLOGY DVISORY
C
OMMITTEE
Cable Advisory Committee
The Cable Advisory Committee took the After this review, the CBC meets with
following actions: representatives of each department to
discuss their recommended capital
Reached an agreement with Comcast
requests in depth. The CBC then votes
for a buyout of the Institutional
on whether to recommend each individual
Network that Comcast formerly
request to Town Meeting for their
maintained. The money will mainly be
approval.
used for cable related needs.
Continued the ascertainment process
The CBC also presents the results of their
deliberations to the Finance Committee
a new franchise agreement with
and the Standing Committee on Ways and
Comcast.
Means before the start of the Annual
We assisted Framingham residents
Town Meeting
with repair and billing issues on their
cable TV service.
Cultural Council
The Massachusetts Cultural Council gave
The members of the Cable Advisory
the FCC $17,510, along with $4,500 from
Committee are: W. Peter Barnes, Annabel
corporate donations and used funds from
Dodd (Chair), Ron Rego, Norma Shulman
the Framingham Bracelet Account to
and Mort Shuman.
grant a total of $25,428 to 35 applicants.
Capital Budget Committee
The l Contributor of the
The Capital Budget Committee (CBC)
for her
consists of six Town Meeting Members
leadership in the campaign to raise funds
appointed by the Town Moderator, and
for a new Framingham Branch Library.
one representative from the Finance
Committee. The role of the CBC is to
The 2014 FCC Bill Collins Memorial Arts
recommend to Town Meeting for
Scholarship was awarded to Sara Goulart,
approval all capital projects with a cost of
a student at the Learning Center for the
at least $25,000 and an expected useful
Deaf who will attend the National
life of five years.
Technical Institute of the Deaf at the
Rochester Institute of Technology.
The CBC receives the recommended
capital budget items from the Chief
Respectfully submitted,
Financial Officer (CFO) ninety days prior
Diane M. Hartung, Chair; Mary Jane
to the start of the Annual Town Meeting.
Dotson, Clerk, Rita Collins, Treasurer and
The CBC then meets with the CFO to
members Norma Kent and Judy Levine.
discuss the recommended items as well as
an extensive review of the capital needs of
For info: mass-culture.org/Framingham
the town and schools.
General Committees194
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
Cushing Chapel Advisory Committee We had many guest presenters attend our
The Cushing Chapel Committee has been meetings to update us on their access
working at keeping the chapel busy with plans:
weddings and other functions. The
Matt Torti, Director of Buildings
chapel is available for rental by contacting
& Grounds for the Public schools
the Facilities Management Department.
Jim Duane, Director of Parks and
Make an appointment to see inside this
Recreation and Tom Begin, of
historic building.
Parks & Recreation
Disability Commission
Deputy Chief Trask, Framingham
Members: Karen Foran Dempsey (Chair),
Police Department to present
Susie Santone (Vice Chair), Elise Marcil
Smart911 program
(Clerk), Rose Quinn (Treasurer), Craig
Coleman, Jennifer Davis, Kathie
Patrolman Jeff DeRosa and
McCarthy, Dennis Moran.
Police-dog Cam, Framingham
Police Department to present
A member of the Disability Commission
Cam and explain the Narcotics
attended a seminar held by The Disability
Dog Training Program
Law Center about the new medical
marijuana law in Massachusetts. The
Holli Andrews, Director of
seminar focused on the history of the law,
Framingham Downtown
the need for medical marijuana, police
Renaissance
issues, and getting the medication before
the legal dispensaries are open.
David Correia, Director of
Advocacy at Metrowest Center for
The Disability Commission co-sponsored
Independent Living (MWCIL)
the Transition to Adulthood Conference
held at Framingham High School. The
Dan Candee, Property Owner of
vonference provided advocacy resources,
125 Newbury Street
information & referral, and support
services to assist children (and their
Although several groups expressed
families) as they transition into adulthood.
interest in receiving funds from the HP
Fine account, unfortunately no one came
Commissioners served on the Libary
forward to formally request funding..
Accessible Building Committee to assist in
the design development of two new
We look forward to working closely with
accessible entrances. In September, the
all Town departments, BoS and TMM to
Commission attended the ribbon cutting
ensure that Framingham is in compliance
ceremony to celebrate the opening of the
with State and Federal access regulations.
new accessible Lexington St. entrance.
We look forward to assisting with the
Sincerely,
second accessible Pearl St. entrance.
Karen Foran Dempsey
Chair, Disability Commission
In October, several members of the
Disability Commission attended the
Metrowest Center for Independent Living
(MWCIL) Gala roasting Dennis
Giombetti, retired Chair of the BoS.
General Committees195
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
Edgell Grove Cemetery and revolving funds and monitoring the
Mausoleum
Edgell Grove Cemetery and Mausoleum
had a very successful year as the The workload for the Finance Committee
community becomes familiar with the requires a commitment of significant time
beautiful grounds and peaceful from the volunteers who serve on it. In
setting. We had 70 full burials, 45 2014, the Finance Committee met 16
cremation burials, 62 plot sales, 17 times, and participated in the Annual
mausoleum sales, 5 mausoleum interments Town Meeting and one Special Town
and 3 chapel rentals. Meeting.
With the completion of the Chapel Members often have significant
renovation we have received very positive responsibilities beyond regular Finance
feedback and have seen new interest in its Committee meetings. The Committee
use. We would encourage anyone to provides representatives to the Real
visit this beautiful building. Property and Capital Budget committees
under Town bylaws. The Committee
The mapping system is ongoing and has routinely appoints liaisons to Keefe Tech
taken awhile since it had not been updated and the School Department to monitor
since the fire destroyed a number of their independent budget development
original maps. This has been a huge -
undertaking but the end is in sight. member Audit Subcommittee meets with
t firm and the
With the passing of Stanton Fitts, Peter to resolve
Whiting was appointed by the audit findings.
Selectmen and has brought his
knowledge of machinery and some insight As part of a three year budget plan, the
to the Cemetery as he has worked on FY15 budget allowed for continued
some of the projects prior to his joining strategic investments both to the town
the Board. and the schools.
At that time we reorganized with Susan
Framingham Schools approx.
Silva as Treasurer, John Silva as Secretary,
$2.1M as part of a two year plan for
Barbara Ford as vice chair and Kathy
District Rebuilding
Griffith as Chair.
Police approx. $363.6K
Establish Litigation Contingency
Finance Committee
Fund - $125K
The Finance Committee is comprised of
Establish Capital Stabilization Fund
nine members appointed by the Town
approx. $91.7K
Moderator for a term of three years. It
EconomicDevelopment
recommends action to Town Meeting
Corporation(EDIC)-approx. $110K
regarding the budget and other areas of
finance. Other key responsibilities include
The Finance Committee remained
authorizing disbursements from the
focused on the long-term financial health
Reserve Fund for emergency expenses,
of the Town.
authorizing deficit spending for
emergency winter-related expenses,
approving the expenditure ceiling for
General Committees196
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
A key in making sure that the Town has The Finance Committee thanks John
the ability to manage any future down-Zucchi (2014) for his extensive support
turn in the economy is to remain focused and leadership. We also express our
on thoughtfully controlling expenses and appreciation to CFO Mary Ellen Kelley
growing revenue responsibility. The and Assistant CFO Jennifer Pratt for their
following are recommendations of the ongoing expertise and support.
Committee to the Town.
Respectfully Submitted,
Kurt Steinberg, Chair, 2014
Framingham needs to continue
with a comprehensive plan to
Government Study Committee
grow commercial revenue;
The Government Study Committee met
The CFO should continue the
12 times in 2014, focusing its efforts on
long term plan to fully fund Other
the review and introduction of proposed
Post Employee Benefits (OPEB);
bylaws. The committee also sponsored
The Town should ensure that
bylaw changes at Fall Town Meeting that
salaries and benefits do not grow
eliminated the bylaw banning motor
faster than projected revenue and
scooters in Framingham, and added the
expand employee healthcare cost
explicit inclusion of parking lots as one of
sharing;
the items evaluated and under the
The Framingham Schools should
jurisdiction of the Nuisance bylaw, used
project a 10-year special education
by the Inspectional Services Division.
growth cost and options to reduce
the impact on general education
During the 2015 Annual Town Meeting,
and share with Town Meeting;
the committee is asking that Town
The Town should continue to
Meeting Members reduce the size of
build the stabilization fund;
Government Study to 9 members, with a
quorum of 5. If this provision is adopted,
The Town should continue with
there will be three open seats on the
the comprehensive maintenance
Government Study Committee. There are
and capital plan for all town-
six vacancies under the current bylaw
owned buildings;
provisions.
Together Town/School
operational efficiencies should be
Historic District Commission
maximized.
The Historic District Commission held 10
meetings during 2014.
The following Reserve Fund
appropriations were made in FY 2014:
In June, the Board of Selectmen
$125,000 for the Legal Budget; $60,000
reappointed members Helen Lemoine,
for the Facilities Department.
Ted Grenham and Henry Field. Steve
Greeley was appointed, in December, to
Members of the Finance Committee as of
fill the vacant position of District
December 30, 2014: Kurt Steinberg, Chair
Resident. All appointments are until June
(2015); Ambar Sarkar, Vice Chair (2017)
of 2017. In July, the Commission
Mahmood Akhtar, Clerk (2016); Elizabeth
reorganized and re-elected Gerald Couto,
Funk (2016); Leonard Finkel (2016); Scott
A.I.A., Chair, and Susan Bernstein, Vice-
Estes (2015), Nancy Wilson (2015);
Chair. The position of clerk remains
George King (2017) and one vacancy.
vacant and is rotated among the members
General Committees197
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
monthly. This year the Commission lost Submitted for the Commission by
the services of two valued members, Ron Gerald Couto, A.I.A., Chairman; Susan
Lamphere and Sandi Marder. We thank Bernstein, Vice-Chairman; Henry Field;
them both for their contributions to the Amy Finstein, Ph.D.; Julie Ferrari,
Commission. A.S.L.A.; Ted Grenham; Jim Kubat,
A.I.A.; Ron Lamphere, Helen Lemoine;
The Commission hired a professional Sandi Marder, Calvin Smith; Steven
consultant, Communities Opportunity Greely.
Group, to prepare a report and assist with
a Public Hearing, to fulfill the Historical Commission
requirements of State Statute, in Members: Chair: Fred Wallace
preparation toward adding eight Vice Chair: Paul Silva
properties to the Centre Common Clerk: Susan Martone
Historic District. A Public Hearing on Gerald Couto
this matter was held, as required, on 8 Jane Whiting
October 2015. A number of attendees Thomas Schuetz
spoke in favor of the article and while Lewis Colten
there were concerns, no one spoke against Staff Support: Daphne Collins
the proposed article. As a result the
Commission filed an article for inclusion We began a
in the 2015 Annual Town Meeting Inventory of Cultural Resources was
Warrant to add said properties to the begun. It was last updated in 2002, and is
District. an important tool for the work of this
Commission. It will be complete in 2015.
During the year, the Commission held
two public hearings issued one Certificates Seven applications for demolition permits
of Appropriateness and one Certificate of were approved. A request for support of
Non-Applicability. One request for a Historic Tax Credits for the Tribune
public hearing was withdrawn without Apartments (Irving Square National
prejudice. Register District) was approved.
Three signs identifying the boundaries of Several signs were designated as
the Center Common Historic District historically significant La Cantina,
were erected with the assistance of the Waverly St., Famous Pizza, Nicholas
Town Highway Department. The Road, and the Deluxe Depot Diner on
Commission also continued its Waverly. Street.
discussions regarding: new Historic
Districts in the Belknap Road area and An exciting development this year was the
two single building Historic Districts, the restoration and reopening of the H. H.
erection of signs marking the existing Richardson train station downtown, as the
Jonathan Maynard Historic District, Deluxe Depot Diner. On the National
revised language that will assist the Register of Historic Places, this building is
Commission in the performance of its
duties and revisions to the Historic resources. The Commission provided
District Information Pamphlet. The support for the process that led toward
Commission looks forward to completing reopening.
these unfinished projects during the
coming year. Fred Wallace, Chair
General Committees198
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
Human Relations Commission with reviewing any proposals concerning
The Human Relations Commission holds property which is purchased, sold,
meetings on the second Thursday of each transferred, or leased by the Town. Its
month in Lower Nevins Hall. At present recommendations are made to Town
we have seven members and two advisors. Meeting before Town Meeting Members
Our By-Laws allow us to have thirteen vote on any such proposals.
members.
The committee met twice in 2014. In
This year we had open discussions on the April it considered four articles in the
Mary Dennison issue and its impact on Annual Town Meeting Warrant: Article 5,
the Beaver Street Cothe authorization for the School
issues as they relate to homelessness and Committee to lease administrative space
suicide within our community; the for up to five years, and Articles 28, 29
progress of the Downtown Renaissance and 30 concerning street acceptances. All
Project; violence on campuses. We also articles were supported by the committee.
participated in Welcoming Framingham
activities and the Downtown Framingham In the October Town Meeting warrant we
Implementation Plan. We have continued supported Article 15 which would accept
to develop our relationship with the the Snow Property on Wayside Inn Road
Massachusetts Association of HRCs. for conservation purposes.
Our main event was the forum on Ned Price
Acting Chair
collaboration with Framingham State Technology Advisory Committee
University. Featured speakers were Sgt. In 2014 the TAC continued to work with
Richard Pomales of the Framingham the town technology departments to
Police Department, Jen Snook of the review technology initiatives and
purchases. We built relationships with
other committees to build synergies
The Commission is looking for between different committees and the
individuals who are interested in the TAC.
Framingham Community and can help to
bring attention to information on The TAC looks forward to working with
challenging issues. Please Contact the town manager and town moderator
Chairman Robert Anspach at more closely in 2015 and to continue to
bobanspach@aol.com. work with our existing partners.
Real Property Committee Adam C. Levensohn, Chair
The Real Property Committee is charged
General Committees199
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
TM|SCCS
OWN ODERATOR TANDING OMMITTEE ON OMMUNITY ERVICES
SCE|SCP&Z
TANDING OMMITTEE ON DUCATION TANDING OMMITTEE ON LANNING ONING
SCPS|SCPW
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OURNAL
7RZQ0RGHUDWRU139 better than 50%. 29 TMM lost seats
The role of Town Meeting, the legislative because they attended less than 25% of
body of the town, is to appropriate funds the meetings (21 attended 2 or fewer).
(such as budgets and capital projects), to
make general bylaws and zoning bylaws In 11 sessions, Town Meeting completed
and vote on other items that are on the a 44-article Annual Town Meeting
Warrant, such as street acceptances, Warrant, passing an operating budget of
classification plans and collective almost $237 million including $118
bargaining. The Town Meeting acts on a million for the schools, approving and
Warrant, (meeting agenda) that is set by authorizing capital budget items, public
the Board of Selectmen. works projects, legal settlements, street
acceptances, as well as taking up several
citizen petition articles, approving sections
over Town meeting, to set procedures for of Massachusetts General Laws to
the meeting, to keep TM running expedite our town government and
smoothly & to keep discussion on topic, businesses, and various general bylaw and
in accordance with the Warrant. zoning bylaw articles.
The Moderator also appoints 6 important The Fall Special Town Meeting finalized
committees: Finance, Capital Budget, Real the fiscal year 2016 budget, advised the
Property, Government Study, Technical Selectman on the tax levy for the next
Advisory and the Personnel Board. fiscal year as proscribed by a new bylaw
Currently there is one vacancy on the voted at the ATM, approved phase one of
Finance Committee and several on the Zoning Bylaw recodification, deliberated a
Government Study Committee. The
Moderator is always looking for qualified acquisition of land for open space and
people to serve on these committees. authorized emergency funds for Mary
Please visit the Moderator page on the Dennison Park.
town website For more information on all articles, see
(http://www.framinghamma.gov/1517/individual reports as well as the Town
Moderator). Meeting Journal included in this Town
Annual Report. Electronic votes are
Our representative Town Meeting is posted on the town website.
comprised of 216 potential TMMs, 12
elected from each of 18 precincts serving The Fall STM was completed in 3 nights
staggered 3-year terms. Attendance this (rather than 4 or more) because of new
year ranged from 158 to 100, which procedures implemented to expedite
compares to previous years but needs Town Meeting, such as starting as close to
improvement. 29 TMMs had perfect 7:30 as possible, having Committee Chairs
attendance, 72 attended at least 85% & ready at the mikes when they are to give
Town Meeting200
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
reports, waiving the full reading of on the Town website Moderator page.
motions that remain as written in the 91% of the 100 responders indicated that
warrant, and having TMMs ready to be their time at Fall Special Town Meeting
recognized already standing at the mikes. was well spent.
Bundling articles to be referred back with
the concurrence of the sponsor which was As a result of the survey, the Moderator
utilized at the ATM will be implemented will utilize social media - twitter
when applicable. (@FramModerator) and Facebook
(Framingham Town Moderator) - to
Special thanks to Chair, Joel Winett and disseminate Town Meeting information to
the Standing Committee on Rules for also Town Meeting members and Framingham
working toward the goal of expediting Citizens.
Town Meeting and offering their
Town Meeting decides issues that affect
all citizens of Framingham, including
time and help to keep order, to Bernice YOU. I encourage you to get involved as
Strom, as ever the best information table a Town Meeting Member or in some
manager, and to the electronic checkers other capacity. You will get a great
and administrator. education while serving your town! Feel
free to contact me.
In addition to making Town Meetings
more efficient while still maintaining It is a pleasure working with the
Democracy in Action, education and moderator-appointed committees who
communication are key goals. To that contribute so much time, as well as our
end, the Moderator offers Town Meeting Town Manager, Town Clerk and Town
Member Orientation programs and Counsel & their staffs and associates.
Warrant Review Sessions with Town Mgr Special commendations to Cherry Manuel
Bob Halpin and CFO Mary Ellen Kelly for the production of the well-organized
before each Town Meeting. The public is warrant books, background material and
invited to these and can also view the printed motions. Thanks also to the Board
recordings on the town website and on of Selectmen, CFO, Building Services,
TV at certain scheduled times. Tech Services, and Media Services all of
whom are indispensable in the production
I have reached out to the public by and process of Town Meeting.
offering to meet with anyone who might
be interested in becoming involved but Thanks so much to Town Meeting
does not know where to begin. To that Members and those who work so
end, I have met with several people who diligently and put in so many hours on the
contacted me, at least two of whom have Standing Committees. Discussion and
run for Town Meeting as a result of deliberation has been thoughtful and it is
meeting with me and one who became gratifying to see that speakers serve the
involved with another committee. important purpose of clarifying issues
either by asking the right questions or by
In order to learn more about Town giving cogent, well-thought-out opinions.
Meeting Member and with the goal of
further improvements, I conducted a I am grateful to all those who support me,
survey after the Fall Special Town elected me, express continued confidence
Meeting, the results of which are available and encouragement to me in this role of
Town Meeting201
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
Moderator. I look forward to serving, Block Grant Committee CDBG, Council
learning and working with all who serve on Aging, Human Relations Commission,
the town in the upcoming year to make Veterans Council and Fair Housing.
Framingham a better place.
We met with CDBG and discussed the
Respectfully submitted, warrant article (over $500,000 given to the
Teri S. Banerjee, Town Moderator town by Federal Government for capital
townmoderator@gmail.com improvements including handicapped
stands at Bowditch field baseball park and
3HUVRQQHO%RDUGsidewalk improvements for the Housing
The Personnel Board consists of five Authority. Social Service grants included
members appointed by the Town English classes for non-English speakers,
Moderator. The Board had five active help for at risk high school students, after
members during the 2014 year. The role school programs in the Beaver St.,
of the Personnel Board is to administer Waverly St. area and other important
the Personnel Bylaw of the Town of programs)
Framingham in the best interest of the
employees and the citizens of We voted to support an article concerning
Framingham. We
felt that members should attend more
This year the Personnel Board than once and participate or give someone
recommended the approval of the else a chance.
modifications to the position
classifications as they were included in A vote was taken not to support an article
Article 16, General Fund Operating concerning the number of votes required
Budget as presented at the Annual Town to be elected as a town meeting member.
Meeting at the April 29, 2014 Annual Keep it at just one vote.
Meeting.
A motion was made and passed to
The members of the Personnel Board increase the Mary Dennison Master Plan
were unanimous in their approval for and Skate Park Study to $210,000. An
recommending the approval of the above extra $150,000 was added for
mentioned articles. improvements to the park. We felt that
the park was in serious need of
I want to thank the members Antonia improvements.
O'Conner, Stephen Becker, Stan Lichwala
and Roger Ahlfeld for their time and Concerning the Park and Rec. capital
effort. budget, we voted for the Cemetery road
improvements, for improvements to the
Respectively Submitted exterior of Callahan Senior Center., and to
Stephen Richards purchase three new trucks.
6WDQGLQJ&RPPLWWHHRQWe voted in favor of these articles which
&RPPXQLW\6HUYLFHVcame up during the Fall Town
The Standing Committee on Community Meeting: prohibition of motor scooters,
Services is responsible for: Parks and executive session minutes, transfer of
Recreational Dept., Edgell Grove handicap parking fines of $5,700 to the
Cemetery, Community Development Disability commission, and Mary
Town Meeting202
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
Dennison Park Emergency Development Division [now called the
Environmental Testing and Remediation Community and Economic Development
request of $180,000 by the CFO. Division], the Zoning Board of Appeals,
the Planning Board, the Conservation
Special thanks to our Town Meeting
Commission, the Historical Commission,
Members: Andrea Colten, David J.
the MetroWest Growth Management
Longden, Jr., Paul A. Costa, Susan J.
Commission [now called the MetroWest
Massad, Elsa Rose Aviza, Cynthia D.
Regional Collaborative], the Economic
Villanueva, Imre Serfozo, C. Patrick
Development and Industrial Corporation,
Dunne, Dhruba P. Sen, Vice-Chair, Judy
and the Historical District Commission.
B. Leerer, Michelle Quinn Smith, Jennifer
In addition, the SCPZ is responsible for
K. Martin, Robert Cushing, Vera Linardi,
reporting to Town Meeting on any
William J. LaBarge, Clerk.
warrant articles sponsored by or relating
to the activities of these entities.
Respectfully Submitted,
Herb Chasan, Chair
Except for July and August and during
Town Meeting, the SCPZ meets regularly
6WDQGLQJ&RPPLWWHHRQ
on the first Wednesday of the month.
(GXFDWLRQ
Additional meetings are held as needed.
The Standing Committee on Education
The SCPZ held eight regular meetings and
monitors the activities, budgets and
four special meetings during 2014 with an
related warrant articles pertaining to
average attendance of 9.1 members. In
Framingham Public Schools, Joseph P.
bility to
Keefe Technical School and the
monitor the activities of the various
Framingham Public Library system and
boards and committees that it is assigned
meets regularly with representatives of
to monitor, the SCPZ asks one or two of
each entity. The Committee met 7 times
in 2014.
to each of these boards and committees.
The Committee offered reports to Town
Meeting on the FY2015 operating and
monitoring and reporting to the Town
capital budgets of the Public Schools,
Meeting on the project, which Town
Keefe Tech, and the Public Library, and
Meeting authorized in 2013, to review and
recommended favorable action on Article
-law
6 of the 2014 Fall Town Meeting
by a work group of Town staff.
concerning the transfer of homeless
Additionally, the SCPZ formed a 6
transportation funds.
member sub-committee to conduct an in-
d-
Respectfully submitted,
Law Recodification Document, which was
Richard J. Weader II, Chair
approved at the October 2014 Town
Meeting. There still is much work that
6WDQGLQJ&RPPLWWHHRQ3ODQQLQJ
needs to be done over the next several
DQG=RQLQJ
In a-Laws,
By-Law Recodification Project. The
the Standing Committee on Planning and
SCPZ plans to continue its monitoring of
Zoning [SCPZ] is responsible for
this Project and to offer recommendations
reporting to the Town Meeting on the
as needed.
activities of the Planning and Economic
Town Meeting203
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
A partial listing of the other topics more fully with Public Safety divisions on
discussed at SCPZ meetings during 2014 their work in our community.
includes: revisions to the Master Land
ew
6WDQGLQJ&RPPLWWHHRQ3XEOLF:RUNV
Master Plan, Agricultural and Open Space
The Standing Committee on Public
Preservation Cluster Development by-
Works (SCPW) continues to meet with
laws, Agricultural and Open Space
relevant groups to discuss plans for road
Preservation Transfer of Development
improvement projects, bridge replacement
Rights by-laws, moderate slope
projects and their impact on traffic, and
requirement by-law, street acceptances,
roadways. DPW officials are aware of
Oriented Development initiative, rezoning
the need for improvements,
in Framingham Center, and including
acknowledging that selected areas can be
additional properties in the Framingham
worked on when a water/sewer project is
Center Historical District.
under way.
Additionally, the SCPZ reported to the
Projects that have been completed in 2014
2014 Annual Town Meeting and the 2014
or will be underway early in 2015 include
Fall Town Meeting concerning planning
the Wickford Road Bridge project,
and zoning articles.
Dennison Crossing traffic lights, Danforth
Green Offsite Sewer Improvements,
6WDQGLQJ&RPPLWWHHRQ3XEOLF6DIHW\
Beebe Water Storage Tanks Upgrade,
The Public Safety Standing Committee
MassDOT Hollis Street Culvert
(PSSC) consists of members elected from
Replacement, Central Street Bridge
and representing each precinct of Town
reconstruction, and the EverSource
Meeting. PSSC reports to Town Meeting
Downtown Framingham Utility Project.
its recommendations after careful review,
analysis and deliberations related to PS
Looking forward, the SCPW has
divisions, considering community needs
continued concerns regarding Birch Road
and warrant articles. Over the last couple
Well
of years there have been challenges with
lack of meetings/quorum.
6WDQGLQJ&RPPLWWHHRQ5XOHV
The goal of the Rules Committee is to
The role of the PSSC is to communicate recommend Town Meeting procedures
and work with PS divisions to better that will help Town Meeting Members
understand and communicate the services make informed decisions on motions.
that they provide; their present and long
The Committee supports Town Meeting
term goals/needs; and their focus on ways
in the following ways: (1) the Voting
to improve service to our community and
Coordinator, Joel Winett, prepares the
plans to implement. Specific divisions
roster of Town Meeting Members for the
included in our focal point are: Police,
Electronic Voting Administrator and
Fire and Inspectional Services.
handle keypad issues, (2) the Keypad
Managers, Committee members, distribute
During the coming fiscal year we look
and collect the voting keypads, (3) the
forward to being active and dedicated,
Handout Table Monitor, Bernice Strom,
meeting regularly and communicating
prepares packets for the Moderator, Town
Town Meeting204
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
Clerk and the Library, and manages the In 2014 the SCW&M evaluated and made
placement of materials on the tables. recommendations to Town Meeting on
18 warrant articles at the Annual Town
The Committee sponsors an article for
meeting and 10 warrant articles in the Fall
each Town Meeting requesting a report
Special Town Meeting after fully vetting
from various Town officials. In addition,
them with the sponsors and related
the Committee sponsored bylaw articles
boards, committees, and departments.
(which were approved by Town Meeting)
to: (1) change the notification and
The SCW&M continued to work with and
distribution of the warrant, (2) change the
required Town Meeting Member
attendance from 1% to 25% of the eligible
projection of State Aid throughout the
meetings each calendar year, (3) petition
Annual Town Meeting budget process
the legislature to change the Special Act
instead of readjusting the budget while the
regarding the attendance at Town Meeting
State projections evolved. This facilitated
of division heads and boards/committees,
a more stable process at the Annual Town
and (4) clarify the role of the Moderator.
Meeting, allowing for adjustments to be
made at the Fall Town Meeting for
The Committee met monthly, including
variances in projections.
the summer months, to consider
improvements to Town Meeting
The SCW&M worked with the Finance
procedures. Significant recommendations
Committee, CFO, and Town Manager to
made were: (1) standing at a microphone
develop a template for the detailed
to be recognized instead of raising a hand
reporting of labor contract financial
while seated, (2) grouping all articles that
information so that baseline information
will be withdrawn and voting on them
and proposed annual and overall contract
with a single vote, and (3) grouping all
changes are clearly shown. The
routine articles and voting on them with a
Committee continues to urge and support
single vote.
the reduction of stipends in collective
Respectfully Submitted: bargaining agreements, with incorporation
Joel Winett, Chair of these amounts into base pay where
appropriate.
6WDQGLQJ&RPPLWWHHRQ:D\Vnear term approach of developing baseline
DQG0HDQVbudgets in accordance with a 1.25%
As defined in the Town by-laws, the property tax levy increase. This is
Standing Committee on Ways and Means respectful of the taxpayer and affords a
(SCW&M) is responsible for making greater degree of flexibility for Town
recommendations to Town Meeting on Meeting budget deliberations and budget
warrant articles sponsored by and/or approval.
related to the Finance Committee, the
Information Services, Finance, and The SCW&M carefully considers every
Human Resources Divisions; the Board of article under its purview and sometimes
Selectmen, the Town Clerk, Town disagrees with administration funding
Elections, the Legal Department, the requests. An example of this was the
Retirement Board and the Capital Budget FY15 DPW capital budget request under
and Government Study Committees. the water/sewer line items for an
Inventory Control Center Design. Based
Town Meeting205
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Report
on the funding request, the Committee
extrapolated and estimated the total cost
of the proposed building. Lacking a
payback analysis and other pertinent data
the Committee voted against funding this
item. This analysis was presented to Town
Meeting and Town Meeting concurred,
voting to not fund the proposed
Inventory Control Center design.
Special thanks to the 2014 SCW&M
members: Mark Lamkin (Pct.1), Audrey
Hall, Vice-Chair, (Pct. 3), Stuart Peskin
(Pct.4), Kim Comatas (Pct. 5), Jim
Pillsbury (Pct.6) Joel Winett, Clerk,
(Pct.7), Anthony Moretti (Pct. 8),
Ghafoor Sheikh (Pct.9), Lloyd Kaye
(Pct.10), Yael Steinsaltz (Pct.11), Mark
McClennan (Pct.12), Jennifer Martin
(Pct.13), Renee Faubert (Pct.14), Judith
Grove (Pct.15) , Kathleen DeMarco (Pct.
16), Laura Keith (Pct. 17), Joseph Asaya
(Pct.18).
Harold Geller, SCW&M Chair
Town Meeting Member, Precinct
Town Meeting206
2014
MJ
T
OWN EETING OURNAL
VM,TC
ALERIE ULVEY OWN LERK
F,ATC
L
ISA ERGUSON SSISTANT OWN LERK
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Meeting
A29,2014ATM
PRIL NNUAL OWN EETING
A1
RTICLE
To see if the Town will hear a report of the Board of Selectmen for the calendar year preceding this
Annual Meeting and receive the Annual Report made available to the inhabitants of the town pursuant to
Massachusetts General Laws chapter 40, Section 49.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Board of Selectmen
April 29, 2014 Voted:
That the Town hear the Annual Report of the Board of Selectmen for the
preceding calendar year and receive the Annual Report made available to the inhabitants of the town
pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 40, Section 49.
Further, after this report is given, that this article be disposed.
A2
RTICLE
To see if the town will vote to hear reports from various departments, boards, committees and
commissions unless said report has been made in writing and placed on the table at town meeting for
Town Meeting Members. Reports made in writing shall be posted on the Town website for this town
meeting.
And after all reports are given, Town Meeting shall vote to dispose of this article.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Standing Committee on Rules
April 29, 2014 Voted:
That the Town hear reports from various departments, boards, committees and
commissions unless said report has been made in writing and placed on the table at Town Meeting for Town
Meeting Members. Reports made in writing shall be posted on the town website for this town meeting.
Further, after all reports are given, that this article be disposed.
A3
RTICLE
To see if the Town will vote to amend the previously approved FY13 & FY14 Community Development
Block Grant (CDBG) and to allocate unexpended carry-over funds for proposed projects as described in
the background material handout regarding the Recommended FY2015 CDBG Budget as proposed in
Article 4.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Board of Selectmen
April 29, 2014 Voted:
That Article 3 be referred back to Sponsor with the concurrence of the Sponsor.
Town Meeting Journal217
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Meeting
A4
RTICLE
To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Board of Selectmen to accept and expend funds in
accordance with the provisions of Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as
amended, and regulations promulgated thereunder by the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban
Development.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Board of Selectmen
April 29, 2014 Voted:
That the Board of Selectmen be authorized to accept and expend funds in
accordance with the provisions of Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as
amended, and regulations promulgated thereunder by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban
Development, and in accordance with the “Proposed Statement of Community Development Objectives
and Projected Use of Funds” approved by the Board of Selectmen on March 5, 2014 with the amounts of
funding increased or decreased proportionately to the percentage change in actual Entitlement Grant
funding available versus estimated Entitlement Grant funding available. Said projected use of funds is
shown on the attached pages.
A4-AM/A
RTICLE DDITIONAL OTIONSMENDMENTS
April 29, 2014 Failed:
I move that the Town vote to authorize the Board of Selectmen to accept and expend
funds in accordance with the provisions of Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974,
as amended, and regulations promulgated thereunder by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban
Development, and in accordance with the “Proposed Statement of Community Development Objectives and
Projected Use of Funds” approved by the Board of Selectmen on March 5, 2014 with the amounts of funding
increased or decreased proportionately to the percentage change in actual Entitlement Grant finding available
versus estimated Entitlement Grant funding available. Said projected use of funds is shown on the attached
pages with an amendment proposed by the SCW&M to move $70,000 from 3.1 (Bowditch Field Accessible
Bleachers) to 2.1 (Housing Rehabilitation Assistance Program).
As voted 4/28/14 by a vote of 14-1-0
Audrey Hall, Precinct 3
A4-A
RTICLE TTACHMENT
PROPOSEDUSESOFFISCAL2015CDBGFUNDS
1.0A/$103,509*
DMINISTRATIONPLANNING
2.0HR$203,232
OUSING EHABILITATION
2.1H $143,232
OUSING REHABILITATION
S:CAED
PONSOROMMUNITY NDCONOMIC EVELOPMENT
2.2CE$60,000
ODE NFORCEMENT
S:B&IS
PONSORUILDING NSPECTIONAL ERVICES
3.0PFI$130,000
UBLIC ACILITIES MPROVEMENTS
3.1 $70,000
BBF(P)–ADAAB
OWDITCH ASEBALL IELD HASE IICCESSIBLE LEACHERS
S:FPR
PONSORRAMINGHAM ARKS AND ECREATION
Town Meeting Journal218
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Meeting
2.3JJ.GI $60,000
OHN ALLAGHER MPROVEMENTS
S:FHA
PONSORRAMINGHAM OUSING UTHORITY
4.0PS$75,207**
UBLIC ERVICES
4.1LU$12,000
ITERACY NLIMITED
S:FPL
PONSORRAMINGHAM UBLIC IBRARY
4.2FAESLP$20,000
RAMINGHAM DULT LUS
S:FAESLP
PONSORRAMINGHAM DULT ROGRAM
4.3CCSWP$24,000
OMMUNITY ONNECTIONS UMMER ORK ROGRAM
S:FCCC
PONSORRAMINGHAM OALITION OMMUNITY ONNECTIONS
4.4 RLPSP$6,346
ESILIENCY FOR IFE ROGRAM UMMER ROGRAM
S:RLAB
PONSORESILIENCY FOR IFE DVISORY OARD
4.5 HOPTE(HOPE) $7,861
EALTHY PTIONS FOR ROGRESS HROUGH DUCATION
S:PARS
PONSORELHAM PARTMENTS ESIDENTIAL ERVICES
4.6HH $5,000
OOPS FOR OMEWORK
S:SMOC
PONSOR
5.0DI$52,750
OWNTOWN MPROVEMENTS
5.1 SFMSP$50,000
OUTH RAMINGHAM AIN TREETS ROGRAM
S:FDR
PONSORRAMINGHAM OWNTOWN ENAISSANCE
5.2 DCIP$2,750
OWNTOWN OMMERCIAL MPROVEMENT ROGRAM
S:CDD/FDC
PONSOROMMUNITY EVELOPMENT EPARTMENT
TOTALS$564,698
$103,509*
*Administration: The maximum amount of funds that may be budgeted to Administration is, 20% of the sum of the
Entitlement Grant plus Program Income realized in the program year.
$75,207
**Public Services: The maximum amount of funds that may be budgeted to Public Services is, 15% of the sum of the
Entitlement Grant plus Program Income realized in the program year.
FISCAL2015CDBGPROJECTBACKGROUND
1.0AP
DMINISTRATION AND LANNING
G: TACDBG
OALO DMINISTER THE PROGRAM EFFECTIVELY AND EQUITABLY AND TO
ENSURE THAT ALL MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY CAN PARTICIPATE IN OR BENEFIT
.
FROM PROGRAM ACTIVITIES
1.1CDBGPA$103,509
ROGRAM DMINISTRATION
S:FCDD
PONSORRAMINGHAM OMMUNITY EVELOPMENT EPARTMENT
SF: CDBGEG$103,509
OURCES OF UNDSNTITLEMENT RANT
Funds for the administration and planning costs of the CDBG Program. No more than
20% of the grant allocation and program income earned can be allocated for
administration.
Town Meeting Journal219
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Meeting
2.0HR
OUSING EHABILITATION
G: T
OALO ARREST DETERIORATION IN THE EXISTING HOUSING STOCK AND TO STABILIZE
NEIGHBORHOODS THROUGH ONGOING FINANCIAL AND TECHNICAL HOUSING
.
REHABILITATION ASSISTANCE TO PROPERTY OWNERS
2.1 HRAP(HRAP) $143,232
OUSING EHABILITATION SSISTANCE ROGRAM
S:FCDD
PONSORRAMINGHAM OMMUNITY EVELOPMENT EPARTMENT
SF: CDBGEG $130,232
OURCES OF UNDSNTITLEMENT RANT
PI: $40,000
ROGRAM NCOME
In Fiscal 2015, HRAP will provide deferred, no-interest loans to repair code violations,
improve energy efficiency and enhance ADA-accessibility in 2-4 owner-occupied homes
with lower-income owners, and, if possible, 1 to 2 rental units occupied by lower-income
tenants. Both CDBG and HOME funds will be used for loan capital. CDBG & HOME
funds will be loaned to eligible owners, in any area of Town, to address emergency repair
needs, such as heating system and roofing repairs. Rehabilitation funds will be loaned to
eligible homeowners and multi-family residences in low-income target neighborhoods to
fix housing code violations and to improve exterior appearances. In addition to loans,
technical assistance on financial and rehabilitation matters is provided. CDBG monies
will also pay administrative and program delivery costs, including partial salary and
benefits for a the Housing Quality Inspector position who manages the CDBG & HOME
funded HRAP Program while also performing additional residential code enforcement
and coordinating the Town’s Code Enforcement Task Force.
Performance Target: 3-6 Dwelling Units; very low, low & moderate- income clientele
2.2 N/ $60,000
EIGHBORHOOD STABILIZATIONCODE ENFORCEMENT
S:FISD
PONSORRAMINGHAM NSPECTIONAL ERVICES IVISION
SF: CDBGEG $60,000
OURCES OF UNDSNTITLEMENT RANT
The Town has prioritized stronger residential code enforcement to address substandard
and overcrowded housing conditions and provide neighborhood stabilization outcomes
particularly to poorer neighborhoods. The Town will use CDBG funds to pay for
housing inspections in targeted low/moderate-income (LM) neighborhoods. Housing
code violations will be required to be corrected by the property owners, in partnership,
where possible with the Housing Rehabilitation Assistance Program (HRAP).
Performance Target: 400 inspections in LM areas.
3.0PI
UBLIC MPROVEMENTS
G: T
OALSO IMPROVE INFRASTRUCTURE THAT WILL PROLONG THE USEFUL LIFE OF PUBLIC
;
FACILITIESAND TO REMOVE ARCHITECHTURAL BARRIERS TOIMPROVE ACCESS TO
.
PUBLIC AND PRIVATE FACILITIES
3.1 BBF–ADAAB $70,000
OWDITCH ASEBALL IELD CCESSIBLE LEACHERS
S:FP&RD
PONSORRAMINGHAM ARKS ECREATION IVISION
Town Meeting Journal220
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Meeting
SF: CDBGEG $47,850
OURCES OF UNDSNTITLEMENT RANT
PY: $22,150
RIOR EAR FUNDS
Phase II of the Bowditch Baseball Field to install a second set of ADA-accessible
bleachers at the Bowditch Recreation Complex and complete making the facility ADA
compliant. Phase I funded in FY2014 was completed and came under budget, those
funds will be reallocated and applied to the Phase II costs.
Performance Target: 1 public facility serving residents with impaired mobility.
3.2JJ.GD–ADAI$60,000
OHN ALLAGHER RIVE MPROVEMENTS
S:FHA
PONSORRAMINGHAM OUSING UTHORITY
SF: CDBGEG $60,000
OURCES OF UNDSNTITLEMENT RANT
Funding to for road and sidewalk and accessible curb cuts improvements on John J.
Gallagher Drive serving a 40 unit senior and disabled housing complex.
Performance Target: Improvements serving very low, low and moderate income elder
and disable households.
4.0P
UBLIC SERVICES
G: T
OALO IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF LIFE FOR LOW AND VERY LOW INCOME RESIDENTS OF
T.
THE OWN THROUGH THE PROVISION OF PUBLIC SERVICES
4.1LUP$12,000
ITERACY NLIMITED ROGRAM
S:FPL
PONSORRAMINGHAM UBLIC IBRARY
SF: CDBGEG $12,000
OURCES OF UNDSNTITLEMENT RANT
Partial funding is sought to continue the work of an adult literacy training program which
features trained volunteer tutors to teach basic reading, writing, and computational skills,
to illiterate and learning disabled adults on a one-to-one basis and in groups. The range
of activities includes classroom training of tutors, one-to-one tutoring, tutoringin
conversational English to limited English speakers, counseling, job development, General
Equivalency Diploma (GED) preparation and materials, and maintenance of student and
tutor support networks. CDBG funds support the administrative staff to recruitand train
hundreds of volunteer tutors. The program will evaluate students initially and on an on-
going basis, develop a learning plan for each low level literacy student, and provide
guidance to tutors as they work with these students.
Performance Target: Up to 200 very low, low & moderate-income clients
4.2FAESLPP $20,000
RAMNIGHAM DULT LUS ROJECT
S:FAESLP
PONSORRAMINGHAM DULT ROGRAM
SF: CDBGEG $20,000
OURCES OF UNDSNTITLEMENT RANT
Partial funding is sought to provide free English-as-a-Second Language classes, training,
and development to adult (ages 18-85) limited-English speakers to facilitate their
integration into the community, prepare for their GED, Citizenship Preparation classes,
Town Meeting Journal221
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Meeting
the job market, customs, culture and the law. Funds will meet the cost of instructors, and
counseling support for three full capacity classes of instruction for two semesters
operated during the evening hours.
Performance Target: Up to 60 very low, low & moderate-income clients
CCSWP $24,000
4.3
OMMUNITY ONNECTIONS UMMER ORK ROGRAM
S:CC/FC
PONSOROMMUNITY ONNECTIONSRAMINGHAM OALITION
SF: CDBGEG $24,000
OURCES OF UNDSNTITLEMENT RANT
Funding is being requested to provide a youth summer work program to employ a total of
30 teens (ages 14 to 17) that live in low socioeconomic Framingham neighborhoods. The
program will operate during the summer months for two, two and a half week sessions in
which teens will learn responsibility and investment in their community by implementing
appropriate landscaping, general clean up, painting, and maintenance skills, and work
together as a team by completing projects assigned to them. Because this will be a first
job for most, teens will also learn the interview process and how to complete a job
application. These sessions are supervised (on-site) by two adults who have numerous
years of experience working with youth in both a school and community setting. The
program will involve orientation and participation in enrichment sessions on safetyand
health issues.
Performance Target: Up to 30 very low, low & moderate-income clients
4.4 RFLP $6,346
ESILIENCY OR IFE ROGRAM
S:RFL
PONSORESILIENCY OR IFE
SF: CDBGEG $6,346
OURCES OF UNDSNTITLEMENT RANT
Funding is requested to provide an intervention program serving under-achieving at-risk
incoming freshmen at Framingham High School. The mission is to take students most at
risk of academic failure, truancy, and delinquency and help them develop the skills and
confidence theyneed to turn around their education and lives. This proposal seeks funds
toward the Resiliency for Life Math/English Institute, a summer school program offering
math and literacy skills and the semester-long MCAS and SAT prep classes. Students
will attend the Summer Institute for four weeks, from 9:00am to 3:00pm. English &
th
Math programs will focus on important elements to facilitate a smooth transition to 9
grade math.
Performance Target: Up to 15-20 very low, low & moderate-income clients
4.5H.O.P.E.() $7,861
HEALTHY OPTIONS FOR PROGRESS THROUGH EDUCATION
S:PIIC
PONSORELHAM ORPORATION
SF: CDBGEG $7,861
OURCES OF UNDSNTITLEMENT RANT
H.O.P.E. is requesting funding for their on-site community-based program, which is
geared toward 14-21 year old youth residing at the Pelham Apartments. H.O.P.E.
provides access to computer technology that supports academic success and obtaining
better jobs. H.O.P.E. provides one-on-one mentoring, community engagement,
healthcare information, and other social services. Monthly field trips to educational,
cultural, and science institutions will be organized. The proposed program will be
conducted during the evening hours of 5:30 –8:30pm. A family night will be offered
once per month where studentprogress will be reported to the parent or legal guardian.
The funds will directly pay the part-time bilingual program coordinator, program
Town Meeting Journal222
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Meeting
supplies, and costs associated with weekly programs and instructions and related
materials.
Performance Target: Up to 40 very low, low & moderate-income clients
4.6HH$5,000
OOPS FOR OMEWORK
S:SMOC(SMOC)
PONSOROUTH IDDLESEX PPORTUNITY OUNCIL
SF: CDBGEG $5,000
OURCES OF UNDSNTITLEMENT RANT
Educational and recreational after-school program for school age children located at the
Pelham Apartments and the Carlson and Pusan Roads Community Rooms. Homework
assistance, snack, onsite tutoring and recreational activities.
Performance Target: Up to 50 very low, low & moderate-income clients
5.0DI
OWNTOWN MPROVEMENTS
G: T-
OALO IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF LIFE FOR LOW AND MODERATEINCOME PEOPLE BY
D
IMPROVING ECONOMIC CONDITIONS FOR SMALL BUSINESSES IN OWNTOWN
CNRSA.
ROSSROAD THAT SERVE LOCAL RESIDENTS
5.1SFMSP$50,000
OUTH RAMINGHAM AIN TREETS ROGRAM
S:FDR(FDR)
PONSORRAMINGHAM OWNTOWN ENAISSANCE
SF: CDBGEG $25,000
OURCES OF UNDSNTITLEMENT RANT
UPYF: $25,000
NUSED RIOR EARS UNDS
FDR seeks partial funding a South Framingham “Main Streets” program for the Town’s
Downtown/Crossroads NRSA business district and surrounding residential
neighborhoods, where 66% of residents have low or moderate-incomes. Funds will pay
for staff who will promote the economic development of the area by providing marketing
and other technical assistance to firms that serve neighborhood residents as well as small
businesses owned by low or moderate-income people, hold community events, assist new
businesses, and serve as liaison and support during the Downtown redesign and
reconstruction project. Unused funds from the Façade and Sign Improvement Program
from prior years has been reallocated to this project.
Performance Target: Up to 100 small, local businesses that serve clientele from LM areas
and eight marketing events.
5.2DCP $2,750
OWNTOWN OMMERCIAL IMPROVEMENTROGRAM
S:FCDD/FDR
PONSORRAMINGHAM OMMUNITY EVELOPMENT EPARTMENT
SF: CDBGEG $2,750
OURCES OF UNDSNTITLEMENT RANT
Funding is requested for partial funding for downtown parking wayfinding signage
needed during the Downtown Framingham Redesign project to assist businesses and
patrons.
Performance Target: Up to 3-5 signs/banners.
Town Meeting Journal223
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Meeting
CDBG GRAND TOTAL, Fiscal 2015: $564,698
A5
RTICLE
To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Board of Selectmen and School Committee to enter into a
lease upon such terms and conditions as they deem appropriate for a period of up to five years for the use
of certain property as administrative offices for the Framingham Public Schools.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: School Committee
April 29, 2014 Voted:
That the Board of Selectmen and the School Committee be authorized to enter into a
lease upon such terms and conditions as they deem appropriate for a period of up to five years for the use of
certain property as administrative offices for the Framingham Public Schools.
A6
RTICLE
To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, or appropriate from available funds, the sum of
$195,000 for the purpose of supporting Phase Two of a program of safety improvement within the school
and municipal buildings and grounds, including but not limited to building improvements, equipment,
staff training and awareness, or act in relation thereto.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: School Committee
April 29, 2014 Voted:
That this article be referred back to Sponsor with the concurrence of the Sponsor.
A7
RTICLE
To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds or otherwise provide a
sum or sums of money for the purpose of paying unpaid bills of prior years of the Town.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Chief Financial Officer
April 29, 2014 Voted:
That the Town authorize payment of the following unpaid bills of prior years of
the Town. These bills are to be paid from the FY2014 departmental budget in which they were incurred.
Facilities ManagementENE Systems $1,552.32
Facilities ManagementTremco $ 615.25
School Department Northeast Copier Systems $ 602.58
Passed Unanimously
Town Meeting Journal224
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Meeting
A8
RTICLE
To see if the Town will vote to authorize or re-authorize several revolving funds as defined by General
Laws Chapter 44, Section 53 E ½ for Fiscal Year 2015 beginning July 1, 2014.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Chief Financial Officer
April 30, 2014 Voted:
That Town Meeting authorize or re-authorize several revolving funds as defined by
MGL, Ch. 44, Section 53E ½ for FY15 beginning July 1, 2014, including, but not limited to the following:
FundManagerPurposeFY15Disposition of FY14
Spending Fund Balance
Ceiling
Town Owned Facilities To receive funds from rental fees $90,000Balance available
Building/Civic Management and other similar charges for the for expenditure
Use Fund - Department of use of the Danforth and Memorial
Danforth and the General Buildings and to authorize the
Memorial Government Facilities Management Department
BuildingsDivisionto spend these funds for direct
expenses associated with the
general maintenance of these
buildings such as custodial costs,
utilities, maintenance supplies and
other similar expenses.
Town Owned Facilities To receive funds from rental fees $20,000Balance available
Building/Civic Management and other similar charges for the for expenditure
Use Fund - Department of use of Cushing Chapel and to
Cushing Chapelthe General authorize the Facilities
Government Management Department to spend
Divisionthese funds for direct expenses
associated with the general
maintenance of these buildings
such as custodial costs, utilities,
maintenance supplies and other
similar expenses.
Concerts on the Park and To receive funds from the sale of $4,000Balance available
Common FundRecreation food and other similar charges for expenditure
Department of during Concerts on the Common
the Parks and to authorize the Park and
DivisionRecreation Department to spend
these funds for direct expenses
associated with the sale of food
and other concert-related charges
such as staff costs, utilities,
maintenance supplies and other
similar expenses.
School Bus FeesFramingham To receive and spend funds for $380,000Balance available
School direct expenses associated with the for expenditure
Committee - transportation of students to and
School from school.
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Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Meeting
Department
Town Wetland Conservation To receive fees and spend funds to $28,000Balance available
Protection FundCommission pay for services associated with for expenditure
of the Public processing Permits and Requests
Works for Determination.
Division
Excavation Public Works To account for revenue from fees $75,000Balance available
Management Divisioncollected for Street Opening for expenditure
FundPermits and the Excavation
Management program for the
administrative and operational
costs associated with the
management of this program.
Housing Pre-Board of To use funds secured from rental $50,000Balance available
Inspection Health of the inspections, housing application for expenditure
Program FundInspectional fees and re-inspection fees for the
Services implementation of the housing pre-
Divisioninspection program. The funds
will be used for rental costs,
salaries for administrative and field
staff, printing costs, and the
purchase of supplies and
equipment.
Vaccine Board of To use funds secured from $27,000Balance available
Administration Health of the reimbursements for vaccine for expenditure
FundInspectional administration to citizens. The
Services funds will be used to buy
Divisionadditional vaccines and supplies to
expand the program including but
not limited to the purchase of flu
vaccine for town employees.
Fluorescent Public WorksTo use revenue secured from fees $5,000Balance available
Lamp/Mercury Divisioncollected for the disposal of for expenditure
Recycling FundFluorescent lamps, compact
fluorescents and other mercury
containing items like
thermometers, thermostats and
button-cell batteries to offset the
costs of disposal.
Town Records Town Clerk of To use funds secured from vital $80,000Balance available
Preservation the Elected records charges to preserve for expenditure
FundBoards deteriorating records of the Town
Divisionof Framingham. A specific charge
of $2 per record is collected and
will be deposited in this fund to be
used for any costs related to record
preservation.
Callahan Senior Council on To use fees and revenues received $30,000Balance available
Center FundAging of the from building rental, for expenditure
Parks Divisionprogramming, and general
services. The funds will be
expended to cover associated costs
and expenses of those services and
for the advancement of Council on
Aging’s established mission
Town Meeting Journal226
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Meeting
statement.
Emergency Framingham To collect and expend fees $5,000Balance available
Management Emergency assessed to NERAC (Northeast for expenditure
Equipment FundManagement Regional Advisory Council for
Agency of the Homeland Security) communities
Police for the use of centrally housed
Divisionequipment for emergent situations
and provide upkeep and
maintenance on the equipment in
the cache.
Animal Control Animal To use fees collected from $4,500Balance available
FundControl boarding and kennel rentals for the for expenditure
Department of purpose of offsetting kennel
the Police operating costs.
Division
Blighted Building To account for revenue from fees $10,000Balance available
Property FundInspection generated by the foreclosed for expenditure
Department of property registration bylaw and
the municipal lien bylaw. Expenditures
Inspectional may be made for the administrative
Services and operational costs associated
Divisionwith making distressed properties
safe by demolishing, boarding-up,
cleaning up, or securing from
unauthorized intruders.
A9
RTICLE
To see if the Town will vote to appropriate a sum or sums of money for off-site mitigation improvements
or as otherwise agreed upon by the Town of Framingham Planning Board and Project Applicant(s)
pursuant to recorded Planning Board decision(s)to be managed by the Town Manager or designee in
consultation with the Planning Board and consistent with said decision(s).
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Chief Financial Officer
April 29, 2014 Voted:
That this article be referred back to Sponsor with the concurrence of the Sponsor.
A10
RTICLE
To see if the Town will vote to determine what sum or sums of money the Town will appropriate and
raise, or transfer from available funds, for the operations of the Town of Framingham, including debt and
interest for Fiscal Year 2014 (July 1, 2013 –June 30, 2014) and to see what budgets for Fiscal Year 2014
will be reduced to offset said appropriations.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Chief Financial Officer
April 30, 2014 Voted:
That the following FY2014 budget adjustments be made:
Town Meeting Journal227
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Meeting
TransferToFrom
Salary Reserve Fund$143,847
General Government Division$35,000
Human Resources Division$25,000
Parks Division$30,000
Town Clerk Stipend$1,847
Town Clerk/Elections$7,000
Library$45,000
$100,000
Police Division
$200,000
Fire Division
Snow andIce Deficit$300,000
$940,000
Free Cash
School Department$240,000
Snow and Ice Deficit$700,000
TOTAL$1,383,847$1,383,847
A11
RTICLE
To see if the Town will vote to determine what sum or sums of money the Town will appropriate and
raise, or transfer from available funds, for the operations of the Water Department, including debt and
interest for Fiscal Year 2014 (July 1, 2013 –June 30, 2014) and to see what budgets for Fiscal Year 2014
will be reduced to offset said appropriations.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Chief Financial Officer
April 29, 2014 Voted:
That this article be referred back to the Sponsor with the concurrence of the
Sponsor.
A12
RTICLE
To see if the Town will vote to determine what sum or sums of money the Town will appropriate and
raise, or transfer from available funds, for the operations of the Sewer Department, including debt and
interest for Fiscal Year 2014 (July 1, 2013 –June 30, 2014) and to see what budgets for Fiscal Year 2014
will be reduced to offset said appropriations.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Chief Financial Officer
April 29, 2014 Voted:
That this article be referred back to Sponsor with the concurrence of the Sponsor.
Town Meeting Journal228
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Meeting
A13
RTICLE
To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds or otherwise provide
the sum of One Hundred Fifty Thousand and 00/100 Dollars ($150,000.00) to replenish the funding
within the Major Litigation Contingency Fund special warrant article appropriation established under
Article 19 of the 2012 Annual Town Meeting, with such funding to be used with respect to any judicial,
administrative or regulatory proceeding for which legal, expert or stenographer costs to the Town exceed
Twenty Five Thousand and 00/100 Dollars ($25,000.00) in a particular fiscal year, provided that the
Board of Selectmen, Finance Committee and Standing Committee on Ways and Means are timely
apprised of expenditures from such fund.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Board of Selectmen / Chief Financial Officer
April 30, 2014 Voted:
That the Town raise and appropriate the sum of One Hundred Fifty Thousand
and 00/100 Dollars ($150,000.00) to replenish the funding of the Major Litigation Contingency Fund
special warrant article appropriation established under Article 19 of the 2012 Annual Town Meeting, with
said funding to be used with respect to any judicial, administrative or regulatory proceeding for which
legel, expert or stenographer costs to the Town exceed Twenty-Five Thousand and 00/100 Dollars
($25,000.00) in a particular fiscal year, provided that the Board of Selectmen, Finance Committee and
Standing Committee on Ways and Means are timely apprised ofexpenditures from such fund.
Passed unanimously
A14
RTICLE
To see if the Town will vote to fund any collective bargaining agreements that have been settled, and
adopt any necessary changes to the Compensation Schedules.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Human Resources
April 30, 2014 Voted:
That the Town approve the following Collective Bargaining Agreements that
have been settled with Town employees:
Framingham Fire Deputy Chiefs, Local 1652
Framingham Police Superiors Association (FPSOA)
Framingham Librarians SEIU Local 888
Framingham Parks and Recreation Supervisors, LIUNA, Local 1116
And, to adopt the salary schedules as attached, and further, transfer $52,500 from the Salary Reserve
Fund as follows:
$40,000 to the Library Division
$12,500 to the Parks Division
A15
RTICLE
Town Meeting Journal229
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Meeting
To see if the Town will vote to rescind various authorized, but unissued borrowing votes of the Town.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Chief Financial Officer
April 29, 2014 Voted:
That this article be referred back to Sponsor with the concurrence of the Sponsor.
A16
RTICLE
To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, borrow or otherwise
provide a sum or sums of money for various capital projects including purchase of equipment, purchase
of land, repair, rehabilitation, design or construction of buildings and infrastructure, including any related
engineering, personnel and legal services, and the acquisition of any necessary permanent and/or
temporary easements or other interests in land for said projects.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Chief Financial Officer
May 6, 2014 Voted:
That the Town raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds or borrow the
sum of $14,867,461 for the projects listed below, to be spent under the direction of the Town Manager or
his designee, with the exception of items proposed by the School Department, which will be spent under
the direction of the School Superintendent or his designee, and further, that the Town Manager or School
Superintendent shall be allowed to exceed the appropriation for individual capital projects to be spent
under his direction as long as the total amount to be spent does not exceed the total amount appropriated
and that such adjustments are in compliance with M.G.L., Chapter 44 for the purpose of the design and
construction, including any related engineering, personnel and legal services;
Date Amount
Item #DescriptionDepartmentAmountVote
VotedVoted
A16 A Replace Engine 5Fire$570,9815/1/14$570,981124-4-0
A16 B Phase 2 – Protective Clothing ReplacementFire$113,3605/1/14$113,360124-4-0
A16 C Replace Signal Division Pick UpFire$57,6955/1/14$57,695124-4-0
A16 D RFID Collection Security an Self-Check StationsLibrary$194,5605/1/14$194,560124-4-0
A16 E Edwards Cemetery Roadway ReconstructionCemeteries$126,9755/1/14$126,975124-4-0
Council on
A16 F Callahan Senior Center-Front Entrance Redesign$138,6125/1/14$138,612124-4-0
Aging
Parks and
A16 G Ford F650 J-Hook$67,2455/1/14$67,245122-2-0
Recreation
Parks and
A16 H F350 4x4 Crew Cab Pickup 10,000 GVW$43,6655/1/14$43,665124-4-0
Recreation
Parks and
A16 I F350 4x4 Regular Cab Pickup$39,1555/1/14$39,155124-4-0
Recreation
Town Meeting Journal230
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Meeting
Mary Dennison Master Plan & Skate Park Parks and
A16 J
$60,0005/1/14$60,000124-3-2
Feasability StudyRecreation
A16 K Emergency Generator Phase 2Police$349,0005/1/14$349,000128-0-0
Annual Open Conveyance Drainage System & Public Works-
A16 L $175,0005/1/14$175,000124-4-0
Water Quality Restoration Project – 2015Engineering
Public Works-
A16 M Western Ave Fuel Island (general)$16,1505/1/14$16,150125-3-0
Garage
Public Works –
A16 N Annual Roadway Improvements 2015$4,000,0005/1/14$4,000,000128-0-0
Highway
Public Works –
A16 O Annual Traffic Calming – 2015$200,0005/1/14$200,000118-10-0
Highway
Replacement of a 8,800 GVW 4WD HD Cab and Public Works –
A16 P $46,5505/1/14$46,550124-4-0
Chassis with Pickup Body and Snow Plow #402Highway
Replacement of a 15,000 GVW 4WD Rack Truck Public Works –
A16 Q $73,3005/1/14$73,300124-4-0
w/ Lift Gate and Plow #409Highway
Replacement of a 18,000 GVW 4WD Cab and Public Works–
A16 R $67,3505/1/14$67,350124-4-0
Chassis with Dump Body & Plow #411Highway
Public Works -
A16 S Front End Loader Mounted Snow Blower #451A$92,0005/1/14$92,000124-4-0
Highway
Replacement of a 3.5 CY Front End Loader with Public Works -
A16T $242,6505/1/14$242,650124-4-0
Plow #452Highway
Public Works -
A16 U Annual Sidewalk/Accessibility Improvements 2015$200,0005-1-14$200,000124-4-0
Highway
Replacement of a 6 CY Material Spreader w/ Public Works -
A16 V $40,4805/1/14$40,480124-4-0
Controls #442AHighway
Public Works -
A16 W Replacement of a Sidewalk Tractor- Tracked #464$167,4005/1/14$167,400123-5-0
Highway
Replacement of a 40,000 GVW Cab and Chassis Public Works -
A16 X $215,8005/1/14$215,800124-4-0
with Dump Body and Plow #421Highway
Replacement of a 6 CY Material Spreader w. Public Works -
A16 Y $40,8005/1/14$40,800124-4-0
Controls #421AHighway
Replacement of Catch Basin Cleaner/Flusher & Public Works –
A16 Z $269,3605/1/14$269,360124-4-0
Plow #449Highway
Public Works - Passed with
A16AAPurchase of Curbside Refuse Collection Carts$1,000,0005/6/14$1,000,000
Sanitation2/3 Vote
Replacement of (4) 68,000 GVW Cab and Chassis
Public Works – Passed with
A16 AB with Automatic Refuse Packer & Plow #511 #512 $1,337,4405/6/14$1,337,440
Sanitation2/3 Vote
#513 #514
Technology Upgrades Throughout District – Phase School
A16 AC $950,0005/6/14$950,000118-17-5
(4)Department
School
A16 AD King School Elevator$400,0005/1/14$400,000124-4-0
Department
DDC (Digital Direct Control) Energy Conservation School Passed
A16 AE $235,0005/6/14$235,000
ProgramDepartmentunanimously
Furnish New & Replace Outdated Furniture-Phased School
A16 AF $300,0005/1/14$300,000124-4-0
ProjectDepartment
Replace Deteriorated Asbestos Floor Tile in Main School
A16 AG $370,0005/1/14$370,000124-4-0
Areas and in Corridors – Phase #2Department
School
A16 AH Food Services Equipment – Phased Project #1$140,0005/1/14$140,000124-4-0
Department
Town Meeting Journal231
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Meeting
Masonry Repointing – Design and Bid School
A16 AI
$48,0005/1/1448,000124-4-0
Documentation Stapleton SchoolDepartment
Paving Replacement/Storm Water All Schools-School
A16 AJ
$600,0005/1/14$600,000124-4-0
Phased ProjectDepartment
ADA Upgrade to Curbs, Sidewalks, Ramps,
School
A16 AK Railings, Bathroom Partitions, Doors, Signage – $300,0005/1/14$300,000124-4-0
Department
Multiple Schools-Phased Project
Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning (HVAC)-
School Passed
A16 AL Replace Rooftop Air Handling Units & Ventilation $400,0005/6/14$400,000
Departmentunanimously
Equipment-Multiple School
Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing Upgrades – All School Passed
A16 AM $150,0005/6/14$150,000
Schools-Multiple Systems-Phased ProjectDepartmentunanimously
Rack Style Truck with Lift Gate- Vehicle School
A16 AN $37,5005/1/14$37,500 124-4-0
ReplacementDepartment
School Passed
A16 AO Utility Body Truck – Vehicle Replacement$43,0005/6/14$43,000
Departmentunanimously
School
A16 AP Utility Body Truck – Vehicle Replacement$45,0005/1/14$45,000124-4-0
Department
School
A16 AQ Athletic Equipment$57,5005/1/14$57,500124-4-0
Department
Technology
A16 AR Fire Department Mobile Data Upgrade$78,3755/1/14$78,375124-4-0
Services
Technology
A16 AS Data Warehouse$145,7895/1/14$145,789124-4-0
Services
Technology
A16 AT Archived Document Scanning – Phase III$275,9495/1/14$275,949124-4-0
Services
Town Owned Passed
A16 AUComputer Server Room Upgrade$293,0005/6/14$293,000
Buildingsunanimously
Town Owned
A16 AVPhase 2 Space Study-Danforth & Annex$52,5005/6/14$52,500136-4-0
Buildings
And, further, that the Board of Selectmen be authorized to acquire by gift, purchase or eminent domain,
permanent easements and temporary construction easements or other interests in land for said projects,
and further that the Board of Selectmen be authorized to take all actions necessary to carry out the
purposes of this article.
And to meet said appropriation transfer $79,812 as follows:
TransferTown MeetingArticle
From4/05 ATM
$79,812A26C Elevator Shaft & Pedestrian Ramp
and further, that the Treasurer be authorized, with the approval of the Board of Selectmen, to issue from
time to time bonds or notes in the amount of $14,787,649 pursuant to the provisions of M.G.L., Chapter
44, Section 7 and 8 or any other enabling authority.
Passed with a 2/3 vote.
A16–AM/A
RTICLE DDITIONAL OTIONSMENDMENTS
May 1, 2014 Failed:
I move to amend the amount in Article 16J of the FY15 General Fund Capital Budget
for Mary Dennison Park Design, Engineering and Feasibility Study from $60,000 to $210,000
Town Meeting Journal232
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Meeting
Judith Grove, Precinct 15
_______________________________________________________________________________
May 1, 2014 Failed:
I move that the amount of $16,150 for Western Ave. Fuel Island be deleted from the
General Fund Capital Budget (Item 16M).
Wolf Haberman, Precinct 10
_______________________________________________________________________________
May 6, 2014 Failed:
I move to amend the main motion by adding wording to allow town spending up to
only 25 percent of theapproved dollar amount until such time as the Town Manager apprises Town
Meeting Members as to the new FY15 Residential/Commercial Property tax numbers.
Gerald Bloomfield, Precinct 1
_____________________________________________________________________________
May 6, 2014 Failed:
I move that item A16AC, technology upgrades throughout the district-phase (4),
be reduced from $950,000 to $500,000. The $500,000 is the amount agreed upon between the Town and
th
the Schools 4 years ago. This final $500,000 will be the 4 year, totaling $2,000,000.
William McCarthy, Precinct 10
A17
RTICLE
To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, borrow or otherwise
provide a sum or sums of money for various water department capital projects including purchase of
equipment, purchase of land, repair, rehabilitation, design or construction of buildings and infrastructure,
including any related engineering, personnel and legal services, and the acquisition of any necessary
permanent and/or temporary easements or other interests in land for said projects.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Chief Financial Officer
May 7, 2014 Voted:
That the Town raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, or borrow the
sum of $18,016,500 for the projects listed below, to be spent under the direction of the Town Manager or
his designee, and further, that the Town Manager shall be allowed to exceed the appropriation for
individual capital projects to be spent under his direction as long as the total amount to be spent does not
exceed the total amount appropriated and that such adjustments are in compliance with M.G.L., Chapter
44, for the purpose of design and construction, including any related engineering, personnel and legal
services of the following Water Department projects:
Replacement of a 11,000 GVW 4WD Cab and Chassis w/ Service
A17 A Water$55,000
Body and Plow #614
Replacement of a 15,000 GVW 4WD Cab and Chassis w/ Dump
A17 B Water$67,350
Body and Plow #625
Town Meeting Journal233
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Meeting
Replacement of a 11,000 GVW 4WD Cab and Chassis w/ Service
A17 C Water$55,000
Body #601
A17 D Acquisition of a Mini Excavator #650 Water$78,000
A17 E Main Street Area Water Main Improvements – Construction Water$3,325,000
A17 F Union Avenue Water Main Improvements – Construction Water$12,145,000
$130,000
A17 G Water/Sewer Inventory Control Center-Design (Water)Water(Failed
57-37-6)
A17 H Annual Various Water Improvements Project 2015 Water$300,000
Speen Street & Cochituate Road Water Main Replacement –
A17 I Water$640,000
Design
A17 J Annual Various Hydrant & Valve Improvements Project-2015 Water$200,000
A17 K Salem End Road Water Main Lining Water$690,000
A17 L Dyer Street Water Main ReplacementWater$445,000
A17 M Western Ave Fuel Island (water)Water$16,150
And further, that the Board of Selectmen be authorized to acquire by gift, purchase, or eminent domain,
permanent easements and temporary construction easements or other interests in land for said projects,
and further that the Board of Selectmen be authorized to take all actions necessary to carry out the
purposes of this article; and further that the Treasurer is authorized, with the approval of the Board of
Selectmen, to issue from time to time bonds or notes in the amount of $18,016,500 pursuant to the
provisions of M.G.L., Chapter 44, Section 7 and 8 or any other enabling authority.
95 voting in favor, 6 opposed, 4 abstentions.
A18
RTICLE
To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, borrow or otherwise
provide a sum or sums of money for various sewer department capital projects including purchase of
equipment, purchase of land, repair, rehabilitation, design or construction of buildings and infrastructure,
including any relatedengineering, personnel and legal services, and the acquisition of any necessary
permanent and/or temporary easements or other interests in land for said projects.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Chief Financial Officer
May 7, 2014 Voted:
That the Town raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, or borrow the
sum of $9,005,344 for the projects listed below, to be spent under the direction of the Town Manager or
his designee, and further, that the Town Manager shallbe allowed to exceed the appropriation for
individual capital projects to be spent under his direction as long as the total amount to be spent does not
Town Meeting Journal234
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Meeting
exceed the total amount appropriated and that such adjustments are in compliance with M.G.L., Chapter
44, for the purpose of the design and construction, including any related engineering, personnel and legal
services of the following Sewer Department projects:
Replacement of 11,000 GVW 4WD Cab & Chassis w/
A18 A Sewer$55,000
Service Body & Plow #722
Replacement of 60,000 GVW Cab & Chassis w/
A18 B Sewer$323,194
Flusher #740
A18 C Wastewater Master PlanSewer$250,000
Wastewater Pump Station Capital Equipment
A18 D Sewer$400,000
Replacement
$130,000
Water/Sewer Inventory Control Center –Design
A18 E Sewer260,000 (as amended)
(Sewer)
Failed 79-53-4
Waverly/Winthrop Intersection Sewer Realignment –
A18 F Sewer$1,400,000
Design and Construction
A18 G Main Street Area Sewer Improvements – Construction Sewer$866,000
A18 H Union Ave Sewer Improvements– Construction Sewer$1,880,000
A18 I Annual Various Sewer Improvements Project – 2015 Sewer$300,000
A18 J Old Danforth Street Bridge Sewer Main Improvement Sewer$700,000
Eastleigh, Little Farms and Flanagan Sewer Pumping
A18 K Sewer$810,000
Station Replacement –Design
A18 L Western Ave Fuel Island (sewer)Sewer$16,150
A18 M Elmfield Road Sewer Improvements Sewer$1,585,000
A18 N Hop Brook Sewer Realignment Sewer$420,000
And further, that the Board of Selectmen be authorized to acquire by gift, purchase, or eminent domain,
permanent easements and temporary construction easements or other interests in land for said projects,
and further, that the Board of Selectmen be authorized to take all actions necessary to carry out the
purposes of this article;
And further, that the Treasurer be authorized, with the approval of the Board of Selectmen, to issue from
time to time bonds or notes in the amount of $9,005,344 pursuant to the provisions of M.G.L., Chapter
44, Section 7 and 8 or any other enabling authority.
Passed Unanimously.
A18–AM/A
RTICLE DDITIONAL OTIONSMENDMENTS
May 7, 2014 Passed:
I move that the A18E monetary amount be increased to $260,000
Town Meeting Journal235
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Meeting
Kevin P. Crotty, Precinct 7
_______________________________________________________________________________
May 7, 2014 Passed:
I move that the DPW inact an inventory control system and report back to Fall Town
Meeting with results.
Jim Pillsbury, Precinct 6
_______________________________________________________________________________
A19
RTICLE
To see if the Town will vote to act on reports and recommendations of the Selectmen and other officers
and committees of the Town and Boards of Trustees and to raise and appropriate, transfer from available
funds, or otherwise provide a sum or sums of money for the support of the operations of the Town, for a
Reserve Fund, for any other purposes included in said reports, for the payments of notes and bonds of the
Town, if any, which mature before the next annual meeting, for the paymentof pensions and for all other
necessary expenses of the Town for the Fiscal Year 2015 (July 1, 2014 – June 30, 2015).
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Chief Financial Officer
May 14, 2014 Voted:
That the Town hear and act on reports and recommendations of the Selectmen and
other officers and committees of the Town and Boards of Trustees and to raise and appropriate, transfer
from available funds, or otherwise provide a sum or sums of money for the support of the operations of
the Town, for a Reserve Fund, for any other purposes included in said reports, for the payment of notes
and bonds of the Town, if any, which mature before the next annual meeting, for the payment of pensions
and for all other necessary expenses of the Town for the Fiscal Year 2015 (July 1, 2014 – June 30, 2015).
Unclassified Appropriation$33,137,395
Retirement Appropriation$14,390,719
Debt Service Appropriation$12,074,669
Fire Division$13,501,034
Police Division$13,615,534
Public Works Division$9,748,760
Framingham Public Library$2,928,591
Planning Board$186,522
Town Clerk Stipend$94,207
Town Clerk/Elections Division$418,551
General Government Division$3,282,963
Parks & Recreation/Cultural Affairs Division$3,670,339
Finance Division$2,411,124
Inspectional Services Division$2,140,381
Community & Economic Development Division$612,232
Town Meeting Journal236
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Meeting
Technology Services Division$1,416,596
Human Resources Division$903,686
Framingham Public Schools$109,368,801
Keefe TechnicalAssessment$8,638,850
Stabilization Fund$639,574
Unanimously
voting in
favor
Capital Stabilization Fund$2,284,194
Unanimously
voting in
favor
Reserve Fund
$400,000
Snow & Ice Appropriation$1,632,717
Total Town Meeting Appropriation$237,497,439
And to meet said appropriations, the Town approves the following to support the budget:
Transfer from Free Cash$3,837,446
Transfer from Parking Meter Receipts$50,000
Transfer from Sewer Enterprise Fund$1,389,128
Transfer from Water Enterprise Fund$1,499,362
Transfer from Consumer and Merchant Protection Act Funds$15,000
And the balance to be raised from taxation.
Passed unanimously.
A19–AM/A
RTICLE DDITIONAL OTIONSMENDMENTS
May 8, 2014 Failed:
I move to reduce the operating budget of the Police Department by the amount
budgeted for the additional new 7 police officers positions proposed for FY15 in the amount of $248,775.
Yael Steinsaltz, Precinct 11
_______________________________________________________________________________
May 13, 2014 Failed:
I move to reduce the Board of Health budget by $228,994 from $1,046,953 to
$817,959, which is 5% above the FY14 budget of $779,009.
Yaakov Cohn, Precinct 5
_______________________________________________________________________________
A19RA
RTICLE ESOLUTION
May 8, 2014 Failed:
I move that the Police Department will not use a taser on a officer during training.
Town Meeting Journal237
Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Meeting
Jim Pillsbury, Precinct 6
A19RB
RTICLE ESOLUTION
May 8, 2014 Passed:
Be it resolved that some of the $14,537 appropriated for the establishment of a
seasonal conservation trails crew be used to clean up debris dumped on the Conservation Land known as the
Cedar Swamp which is located in Downtown Framingham and bordered by Waverly Street, Mellen Street,
Cypress Street and Cedar Street.
George Lewis, Precinct 18
A19RC
RTICLE ESOLUTION
May 8, 2014 Passed:
Be it resolved that the Facilities Department fly the POW MIA flag at the Memorial
Building each day the American Flag is flown.
Jim Pillsbury, Precinct 6
A19RD
RTICLE ESOLUTION
May 8, 2014 Failed:
Resolved, Town Meeting encourages that Legal Services be routinely publicly bidded.
Jeffrey Cox, Precinct 14
A20
RTICLE
To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, or otherwise provide a
sum or sums of money for the operation of the Water Department, including capital outlay and debt
service, and for all other necessary expenses for the Fiscal Year 2015 (July 1, 2014 –June 30, 2015).
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Chief Financial Officer
May 14, 2014 Voted:
That the Town expend $19,005,439 in FY2015 in the Water Department for the
cost of personnel, operating expenses, MWRA Assessment and debt service, under the direction of the
Town Manager or his designee:
And, that $19,005,439 be raised from water receipts.
105 voting in favor, 5 opposed.
A21
RTICLE
To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, or otherwise provide a
sum or sums of money for the operation of the Sewer Department, including capital outlay and debt
service, and for all other necessary expenses for the Fiscal Year 2015 (July 1, 2014 –June 30, 2015).
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
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Sponsor: Chief Financial Officer
May 14, 2014 Voted:
That the Town expend $23,683,261 in FY2015 in the Sewer Department for the
cost of personnel, operating expenses, MWRA Assessment and debt service, under the direction of the
Town Manager or his designee:
And that $23,683,261 be raised from sewer receipts.
108 voting in favor, 1 opposed.
A22
RTICLE
To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, or otherwise provide a
sum of money not to exceed $ 5,965,757 for the purpose of energy conservation and energy related
improvements to public buildings owned by the Town of Framingham, including payment of all costs
incidental and related thereto; and further, that in addition to the methods of funding provided above, the
Treasurer be authorized, with the approval of the Board of Selectmen, to enter into a lease financing
agreement with respect to such improvements, said funding to be expended under the direction of the
Board of Selectmen; and further to authorize a so-called performance based energy contract for a term of
not more than 16 years for the purpose of making said energy conservation and energy related
improvements and guaranteeing the projected financial savings from those improvements and upon such
other terms and conditions as the Board of Selectmen may determine and as approved by the Owner's
Agent.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Town Manager
May 14, 2014 Voted:
That the Town raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, or otherwise
provide a sum of money not to exceed $5,965,757 for the purpose of energy conservation and energy
related improvements to public buildings owned by the Town of Framingham, including payment of all
costs incidental and related thereto; and further, that inaddition to the methods of funding provided
above, the Treasurer is authorized, with the approval of the Board of Selectmen, to enter into a lease
financing agreement with respect to such improvements, said funding to be expended under the direction
of the Board of Selectmen; and further, that a so-called performance based energy contract be authorized
for a term of not more than 16 years for the purpose of making said energy conservation and energy
related improvements and guaranteeing the projected financial savings from those improvements and
upon such other terms and conditions as the Board of Selectmen may determine and as approved by the
Owner’s Agent.
109 voting in favor, 1 opposed.
A23
RTICLE
To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Board of Selectmen to enter into alternate energy net
metering credit purchase agreements, including solar energy and related net electricity metering credits,
for a term not to exceed 20 years on such terms and conditions as the Board of Selectmen deem in the
bestinterest of the Town.
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Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Meeting
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Town Manager
April 29, 2014 Voted:
That Article 23 be referred back to Sponsor with the concurrence of the Sponsor.
A24–R
RTICLE ESOLUTION
To see if Town Meeting will vote to address previously recognized issues concerning assessing practices.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Citizens’ Petition ()
Deborah Butler
May 14, 2014 Voted:
That Town Meeting request that the Town Manager to report on the follow up to
the Matrix Consulting Group and Assessment Review Committee reports regarding the Town’s assessing
practices and report the status of the recommendations and documentation requests to Town Meeting at
the Fall 2014 Town Meeting.
A25–R
RTICLE ESOLUTION
WHEREAS, Global warming, caused primarily by the burning of fossil fuels and resultingincrease in
greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, is a serious threat to current and futuregenerations in Framingham
and around the world; and
WHEREAS, Global warming is already causing costly disruption of human and natural systems
throughout the world, including the acidification of the oceans, melting of Arctic and glacial ice, rising
sea levels, increasing heat waves, floods, drought, extreme weather, and corresponding food and water
shortages, property damage, loss of biodiversity, and death; and
WHEREAS, The effects of global warming will further intensify with increased temperatures such that
almost all governments in the world, including the United States, have agreed (through the 2009
Copenhagen Accord) that any warming above a 2°C (3.6°F) rise would be unsafe for human habitation;
and
WHEREAS, Scientists estimate that humans can emit only approximately 565 more gigatons of carbon
dioxide into the atmosphere and still retain a reasonable hope of not exceeding 2°C of global warming;
and
WHEREAS, Proven coal, oil and gas reserves counted as assets of fossil fuel companies equal roughly
2,795 gigatons of CO2, or five times the maximum amount that can safely be released to prevent more
than 2°C of global warming; and
WHEREAS, Fossil fuel companies continue to explore for even more fossil fuel deposits thatcannot be
burned without rendering Earth unfit for human habitation; and
WHEREAS, Fossil fuel companies operate under the imperative to create shareholder profitrather than
for long term public benefit, use their considerable financial resources to mislead the public on the
scientific consensus about the dangers of global warming, and to influence the government to maintain
laws and regulations favorable to the continuing sale of their product, and
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WHEREAS, The Town of Framingham has a moral duty to protect the lives and livelihoods of its
inhabitants and of people around the world from the threat of global warming and believes that its
investments should support a future without the catastrophic impacts of a warming environment; and
WHEREAS, The Town of Framingham has a duty to its employees and taxpayers to maintain the value of
funds invested on their behalf and to avoid risky investments; and
WHEREAS, Investments in fossil fuel companies could prove highly risky given that 80% of their proven
reserves could become "stranded" and unusable assets if governments act to protect a habitable climate;
now
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT Framingham Town Meeting urges its Retirement Board and
Town Treasurer to review their investment portfolios in order to identify any holdings that include direct
or indirect investments in Fossil Fuel Companies, defined for purposes of this Resolution as any of the
two hundred publicly-traded companies with the largest coal, oil and gas reserves (as measured by the
gigatons of carbon dioxide that would be emitted if those reserves were extracted and burned) such as
those companies listed in the Carbon Tracker Initiative's "Unburnable Carbon" report; and
Be it FURTHER RESOLVED, That Framingham Town Meeting urges it Retirement Board and the Town
Treasurer to adopt policies to divest from such existing public equities,corporate bonds, or other direct
holdings in Fossil Fuel Companies within five years and to preclude any new direct investments in Fossil
Fuel Companies in the future, and
Be it FURTHER RESOLVED, That, for any investments of the Town of Framingham in commingled
funds that are found to include Fossil Fuel Companies, Town Meeting urges the Retirement Board and
Town Treasurer to contact the fund managers and request that the Fossil Fuel Companies be removed
from such funds; and
Be it FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Town Treasurer and Retirement Board release annualupdates,
that are made available to the public, which detail progress made towards fulldivestment in Fossil Fuel
Companies within five years; and
Be it FURTHER RESOLVED, That Town Meeting urges the Board of Selectmen, TownTreasurer and
Retirement Board to endorse proposed state legislation requiring divestment of statewide retirement funds
(Pension Reserve Investment Trust (PRIT)) from fossil fuelcompanies, and
Be it FURTHER RESOLVED, That the TownClerk is requested to send copies of thisResolution to
Governor Deval Patrick, State Treasurer Steven Grossman, State Senator Michael Barrett, and State
Representative Cory Atkins, or take any other action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Citizens’ Petition ()
Kenneth Weiss
May 15, 2014 Voted:
That the Town enact the resolution on Fossil Fuel Divestment as reflected in the
Citizens’ Petition article presented in this Annual Town Meeting Warrant.
A25–AM/A
RTICLE DDITIONAL OTIONSMENDMENTS
May 15, 2014 Failed:
I move that the resolution associated with Article 25 be revised by striking all
reference to the retirement board and retirement investment vehicles.
R. Karl Rookey, Precinct 14
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A26
RTICLE
To see if the Town will vote to amend the Framingham ZoningBylaw by adding new definitions to
Section I.E. and by adding a new Section IV.S. Agriculture Preservation Development.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Planning Board
May 15, 2014 Voted:
That the Framingham Zoning Bylaw beamended by adding new definitions to
Section I.E. and by adding a new Section IV.S. Agriculture Preservation Development as set forth in the
handout dated April 29, 2014 attached to this motion.
99 voting in favor, 3 opposed, 4 abstentions.
Approved by the Attorney General on September 3, 2014.
A26-A
RTICLE TTACHMENT
Article 26: Agriculture Preservation Development
Sponsor: Planning Board
Framingham Annual Town Meeting
Date: April 29, 2014
I move that the Town vote to amend the Framingham Zoning By-law by adding new definitions to
Section I.E. and by adding a new Section IV.S. Agriculture Preservation Development as set forth
in the handout dated April 29, 2014 attached to this motion.
Section I.E. Definitions
Active Farm Parcel: The portion of the Active Farm that shall have an Agriculture Preservation
Restriction (APR) placed on the area in perpetuity. A minimum of 70 percent of the Active Farm shall
remain as an Active Farm in perpetuity.
Active Farm: Land located in the Town of Framingham utilized for agriculture, having a minimum of 15
acres, located in a R-3 or R-4 Single Family Residential Zoning District, enrolled in M.G.L. c. 61 and/or
61A and consisting of one or more contiguous parcels in one ownership throughout or any combination of
parcels of land consolidated under a Purchase and Sale Agreement where all such owners jointly apply for
an Agriculture Preservation Development Special Permit and that do not have a Conservation Restriction
or Agricultural Preservation Restriction on theActive Farm.
Agriculture and/or Farm: These terms shall include farming in all of its branches and the cultivation and
tillage of soils; dairying; the production, cultivation, growing and harvesting of any agricultural,
floriculture or horticultural commodities; the growing and harvesting of forest products upon forest land;
the raising of livestock (including horses, the keeping of horses as a commercial enterprise, the keeping
and raising of poultry, swine, cattle and other domesticated animals used for food purposes, bees and fur-
bearing animals); and any forestry or lumbering operations performed by a farmer.
Agricultural Preservation Restriction (APR): A restriction and agreement in perpetuity with owners of an
Active Farm Parcel, in accordance with M.G.L. c. 184, § 31. An APR is a legally binding set of
restrictions that is monitored and enforced by the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources, a
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town conservation commission and/or a land trust. Owners of Active Farms may voluntarily enter into
these agreements by selling the APR for a negotiated price based on the appraised value of the restriction.
Buildable Parcel: The portion of the Active Farm that may be used for cluster development. The Active
Farm Parcel shall not be included in this area.
Common Open Space: A portion of the Buildable Parcel that may be used for active, passive or leisure
activities by the residents of the Agriculture Preservation Development.
Farmer: A person engaged in agriculture or farming as previously defined, or on a farm as an incident to
or in conjunction with such farming operation, including preparations for market, delivery to storage or to
market or to carriers for transportation to market.
IV.S. Agricultural Preservation Development
1.Purpose and Intent
The Agricultural Preservation Development (APD) By-law shall apply to parcels of land within the
Town of Framingham that meet the definition of an Active Farm. The APD provides landowners with
an opportunity to sell up to 30 percent of their land for a residential cluster development while
protecting a minimum of 70 percent of the property as an Active Farm Parcel.
The intent of the APD is to:
a.Promote and protect the Active Farm through conservation of those lands for future agricultural
use and/or habitat:
b.Maintain an adequate base of agricultural land and activity in Framingham to help ensure the
continued economic viability of local farms and thereby contributing to the continued
availability of agricultural supported services;
c.Preserve land which, by virtue of its soil composition, acreage, location adjacent to and
contiguous with other farmland or preserved open space forming discrete blocks of land, and its
lack of protection under existing zoning or other laws, comprises the critical unprotected
farmland of the Town of Framingham.
d.Create a unique cluster development neighborhood setting while preserving important farming
resources;
e.Establish non-motorized vehicular connections between open space parcels, water resources,
neighborhoods, and/or public amenities; and
f.Promote land use consistent with the Town’s Master Plan and Open Space & Recreation Plan.
2. Active Farm Parcels
a. Applicability
To qualify for a special permit under the APD as an Active Farm, the proposed land shall be:
i.located in a R-3 or R-4 Single Family Residential Zoning District;
ii.consistent with the definition of an Active Farm; and
iii.not have been subdivided into smaller parcels, including Approval Not Required (ANR)
within a 5-year period prior to submission of an application for Section IV.S, herein.
b. Development Requirements
The development of the Active Farm Parcel shall require the following conditions:
i. The Applicant shall file with the Planning Board a Preliminary Plan conforming to the
requirements of Section V.C. of the Framingham Subdivision Rules and Regulations. A
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Professional Land Surveyor or Engineer licensed in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts
shall prepare the Preliminary Plan to determine the number of buildable lots that would
be created under conventional zoning. The Preliminary Plan shall identify the quality of
the land by identifying all wetlands, vernal pools and slopes over 15 percent. The number
of lots shall also be consistent with Section IV.H. Land Disturbance by-law and shall be
reviewed and approved as to accuracy by the Town Engineer.
ii. A minimum of 70 percent of the Active Farm shall be known as the Preserved Area and
shall be preserved under an Agriculture Preservation Restriction (APR) in accordance
with Section IV.S.4. and shall remain in private ownership of the Active Farmer.
iii.A maximum of 30 percent of the Active Farm shall be known as the Buildable Parcel and
may be utilized for residential development.
iv. The Applicant shall submit a proposed site plan that may request a unit density bonus of
up to 20 percent of the number of buildable lots determined under the Preliminary Plan.
During a pre-application meeting, the Planning Board shall determine if the proposed
density bonus is acceptable based on the quality of the preserved land. Factors that the
Planning Board shall consider to determine the density bonus include the quality of the
land preserved and locations of wetlands, vernal pools and slopes over 15 percent and the
need for septic systems.
3. Agriculture Preservation Development Requirements
Areas allowed for residential development on the Buildable Parcel shall be required to meet the
following conditions:
Dimensional Regulations
a.
The APD shall comply with Section IV.S.3.a Table of Dimensional Regulations. However, the
Planning Board may waive the requirements for Section IV.S.3.a Table of Dimensional
Regulations by a four-fifth vote where such waivers will allow for better design and/or improved
protection of natural and scenic resources.
Table of Dimensional Regulations
Active FarmR-3 & R-4
Lot Frontage for the Buildable Parcel150 Feet
Vegetated Buffer Surrounding the Development Adjacent to 100 Feet
the Active Farm
Vegetated Buffer Surrounding the Development Adjacent to 75 Feet
other land uses
Front Building Setback30 Feet
Side Building Separation50 Feet
Rear Building Separation75 Feet
Maximum Number of Attached Units 3
Maximum Building Height3 stories/35’
b.Design Standards
The Buildable Parcel shall be consistent with the following Site Development and Building
Design Standards.
i.
Dwelling Units: The APD shall be comprised of attached dwelling units and/or single-
family dwelling units.
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ii.
Design: The Neighborhood Cluster Development design standards found in Section
IV.R.3.d.2., 4., 7., 9-12, 15-18, and the Affordable Housing requirements of Section
IV.O. of the Framingham Zoning By-law apply to this section.
iii.
Layout of buildings: To maintain the visual scale of the community, each dwelling unit
shall have its own exterior entrances.
iv.
Streets and Utilities:All streets, whether public or private, shall be designed and
constructed in accordance with the American Association of State Highway and
Transportation Officials (AASHTO) “Guidelines for Geometric Design of Very Low-
Volume Local Roads,” dated 2001 and “Complete Streets Policies” of the Massachusetts
Department of Transportation.
v.
Water and sewer facilities and systems and other utilities, whether public or private, shall
be designed and constructed in accordance with the requirements set forth by the
Department of Public Works and Board of Health and/or Department of Environmental
Protection when required. Individual or community septic systems may be allowed,
subject to Board of Health and/or Department of Environmental Protection approval,
regulations, conditions and restrictions. Public water and sewer infrastructure shall not be
constructed or paid for by the Town.
vi.
Drainage: The Planning Board shall require the use of non-structural stormwater
management techniques and other drainage techniques that reduce impervious surface
and enable infiltration utilizing “Low Impact Development Techniques” for stormwater
management recommended by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental
Protection where feasible.
c.Common Open Space
i.An area within the Buildable Parcel shall be designated as Common Open Space for use
by the residents of the APD. A minimum of ten percent of the entire Buildable Parcel
excluding the vegetated buffers shall be designated as Common Open Space. Common
Open Space may be used for active, passive or leisure activities.
ii.Common Open Space shall meet the following minimum standards:
a.The wetlands or slopes greater than 15 percent shall not comprise more than 25
percent of the Common Open Space, as identified in Section IV.S.2.b.iv., herein.
d.Open Space and Connectivity
i.A trail within the Active Farm Parcel accessible to the general public shall be established
connecting the Buildable Parcel with abutting open space parcels, trail networks, water
resources, public amenities, and/or neighborhoods.
ii.A minimum of two parking spaces shall be provided for public use, to be utilized while
using the trail. One of the two parking spaces shall be ADA compliant. “No Overnight
Parking” signage shall be installed.
iii.Public access details shall be determined during the public hearing process and written
into the Agriculture Preservation Restriction (APR) documents and the homeowners
and/or condominium association documents.
4.Agriculture Preservation Restriction
The Active Farm Parcelshall be required to meet the following requirements:
a.The Town of Framingham acting through its Conservation Commission, a land trust, or the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts may hold the APR. In no event may the land subject to the
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APR be combined, included or joined with or considered as part of the Buildable Parcel. The
APR shall not be held under the Active Farm or Active Farmer. In all cases, the terms of the
APR, including the nature and extent of public access and provisions for property maintenance,
must be reviewed and approved by the Planning Board and Town Counsel.
b.The entire Active Farm shall be placed under an APR in perpetuity prior to the issuance of the
first building permit at the expense of the Applicant. The APR shall be held by the Town of
Framingham and/or a non-profit land trust.
c.Additional buildings for the use essential to the Active Farm such as barns, temporary structures,
or other accessory buildings within the APR area may be allowed by modification of the
approved plan by the Planning Board.
d.All of the above restrictions must be written into the APR. The Active Farm subject to an APR
may be sold or leased as an Active Farm to a farmer who will continue to maintain the
agricultural use of the land.
5. Application Review
a. Pre-Application Meeting
The applicant shall be required to attend a pre-application meeting with the Planning Board prior to
submitting a formal application for APD. Materials shall be submitted prior to the meeting with the
Planning Board and shall include the Preliminary Plan as required in Section IV.S.2.b.i. and iv. The
pre-application meeting, preliminary materials, and discussions within the conference shall not be
binding upon the Planning Board or Applicant for the final approval of the project.
b. Application Submittal
Application: The Applicant shall apply for a Special Permit and Site Plan Review (Section IV.I.)
from the Planning Board.
c. Approval
The review procedure shall be in conformance with M.G.L. c. 40A, §§ 9 and 11 and Section V.E. of
the Framingham Zoning By-law and other permitting and approval processes as may be applicable.
The Planning Board may require the Applicant to fund Project Review Consultants to assist in the
technical review of the proposal in accordance with the Planning Board’s Administrative Rules and
Regulation and M.G.L. c.44, § 53G.
d. Homeowners and/or Condominium Association Documentation
Homeowner and/or Condominium Association Documentation shall be submitted to the Planning
Board prior to the approval of an APD. Documentation shall include a statement regarding the
acknowledgement of an existing working farm abutting the parcel, which shall not be deemed as a
nuisance.
e. Variance Limitations
The Planning Board may issue a special permit under this Section, subject to the requirements of
this By-law, and in accordance with the additional requirements and standards specified within this
Section IV.S., only if no variance has been issued from the requirements of this Section IV.S.,
herein. A variance under Section IV.S. shall render a property ineligible for the filing of an APD
application and special permit under this section.
g. No Alterations
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No substantial alteration to a parcel of land, which shall include tree removal, utility installations,
ditching, grading or construction of roads, grading of land or lots, alteration of or near a wetland or
vernal pool or excavation except for purposes of soil testing shall be done within 12 months prior
to the filing of an APD application. The above activities shall render a property ineligible for the
filing of an APD application and special permit under this section. For the purposes of soil testing
and/or well testing the Applicant shall seek appropriate approvals through the Conservation
Commission and the Board of Heath.
A26–AM/A
RTICLE DDITIONAL OTIONSMENDMENTS
May 15, 2014 Passed:
I move to amend Article 26, Section IV.S.2.b.iv. by adding the words “and wells” at
the end of the third sentence.
Stephen Shull, Precinct 2
_________________________________________________________________________
May 15, 2014 Passed:
Motion to amend Article 26: Agriculture Preservation Development Bylaw with the
proposed language changes to the sections below:
2.b.i.
The Applicant shall file with the Planning Board a Preliminary Planconforming to the requirements of
Section V.C. of the Framingham Subdivision Rules, the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. c.
131, s. 40) and the Town of Framingham Wetlands Protection By-Law (article V, Section 18). A
Professional Land Surveyor or Engineer licensed in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts shall prepare the
Preliminary Plan to determine the number of buildable lots that would be created under conventional zoning.
The Preliminary Plan shall identify the quality of the land by identifying all wetlands, other resource areas,
and slopes over 15 percent. The number of lots shall also be consistent with Section IV.H. Land Disturbance
by-law and shall be reviewed and approved as to accuracy by the Town Engineer. A copy of the preliminary
plan and all documents shall be filed with the Conservation Commission for review. The Conservation
Commission shall review the delineated wetlands, resource areas and buffer zones and issue an Order of
Conditions under state and local regulations and make a recommendation to the Planning Board.
2.b.iv.
The Applicant shall submit a proposed site plan that may request a unit density bonus of up to 20 percent of
the number of buildable lots determined under the Preliminary Plan. During a pre-application meeting, the
Planning Board shall determine if the proposed density bonus is acceptable based on the quality of the Open
Space Preserved Area. Factors that the Planning Board shall consider to determine the density bonus include
the quality of the land preserved and locations of wetlands, vernal pools, and all other resources and buffer
zones as reviewed by the Conservation Commissionand slopes over 15 percent and any possible need for
septic systems.
Nicola Cataldo, Precinct 2
A26RA
RTICLE ESOLUTION
May 15, 2014 Passed:
Be it resolved, it is the will of Town Meeting that in the future any planning and
zoning articles taken up at the Annual Town Meeting be discussed immediately after all budgetary articles.
R. Karl Rookey, Precinct 14
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A27
RTICLE
To see if the Town will vote to amend the Framingham Zoning By-law by adding new definitions to
Section I.E. and by adding a new Section IV.T. Open Space Preservation Development.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Planning Board
May 20, 2014 Voted:
That the Framingham Zoning Bylaw be amended by adding new definitions to
Section I.E. and by adding a new Section IV.T. Open Space Preservation Development as set forth in the
handout date April 29, 2014 attached to this motion.
87 voting in favor, 41 opposed, 4 abstentions.
Approved by the Attorney General on September 3, 2014.
A27-A
RTICLE TTACHMENT
Article 27: Open Space Cluster Development
Sponsor: Framingham Planning Board
Framingham Annual Town Meeting
Date: April 29, 2014
I move that the Town vote to amend the Framingham Zoning By-law by adding new definitions to
Section I.E. and by adding a new Section IV.T. Open Space Preservation Development as set forth
in the handout dated April 29, 2014 attached to this motion.
Section I.E. Definitions
Open Space Buildable Parcel: The portion of the Open Space Parcel that may be used for cluster
development. The Preserved Area shall not be included in this area.
Common Open Space Area: A portion of the Open Space Buildable Parcel that may be used for active,
passive or leisure activities by the residents of the Open Space Cluster Development.
Conservation Restriction (CR): A restriction and agreement in perpetuity for the protection of Open
Space, in accordance with M.G.L. c. 184, § 31. A CR is a legally binding set of restrictions that is
monitored and enforced by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation Services, the Town’s
Conservation Commission and/or a land trust.
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Open Space Parcel: Land consisting of 15 acres or more located within the Single Family Residential
Zoning District (R-3 and R-4) that has not been protected from development, nor has a conservation
restriction or easement placed upon it and consists of one or more contiguous parcels in one ownership
throughout or any combination of parcels of land consolidated under a Purchase and Sale Agreement
where all such owners jointly apply for Open Space Preservation Development Special Permit and that do
not have a Conservation Restriction on the Open Space Preserved Area.
Open Space Preserved Area: The portion of the Open Space Parcel that shall have a Conservation
Restriction (CR) placed on the area in perpetuity.
IV.T. Open Space Cluster Development
2.Purpose and Intent
The Open Space Cluster Development (OSCD) By-law shall apply to parcels of land within the Town
of Framingham that meet the definition of Open Space Parcel (OSP). The OSCD provides landowners
with an alternative to conventional residential subdivision while protecting a large portion of the
property in its current state or use.
The intent of the OSCD is to:
g.Promote and protect the OSP through conservation of those lands in their natural condition, to
preserve habitat and environmentally sensitive areas, or passive recreational opportunities;
h.Preserve land which, by virtue of its soil composition, acreage, location adjacent to and
contiguous with farmland or preserved open space forming discrete blocks of land, and its lack
of protection under existing zoning or other laws, comprises the critical unprotected open space
areas of the Town of Framingham.
i.Create a unique cluster development neighborhood setting while preserving important open space
resources;
j.Establish non-motorized vehicular connections between open space parcels, water resources,
neighborhoods, and/or public amenities; and
k.Promote land use consistent with the Town’s Master Plan and Open Space & Recreation Plan.
2. Open Space Parcels
a. Applicability
To qualify for a special permit under the OSCD the proposed land shall be:
i.located in a R-3 or R-4 Single Family Residential Zoning District;
ii.consistent with the definition of an Open Space Parcel; and
iii.not have been subdivided into smaller parcels, including Approval Not Required (ANR)
within a 5 year period prior to submission of an application for Section IV.T, herein.
b. Development Requirements
The development of the Open Space Parcel shall require the following conditions:
i. The Applicant shall file with the Planning Board a Preliminary Plan conforming to the
requirements of Section V.C. of the Framingham Subdivision Rules and Regulations. A
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Professional Land Surveyor or Engineer licensed in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts
shall prepare the Preliminary Plan to determine the number of buildable lots that would
be created under conventional zoning. The Preliminary Plan shall identify the quality of
the land by identifying all wetlands, vernal pools and slopes over 15 percent. The number
of lots shall also be consistent with Section IV.H. Land Disturbance by-law and shall be
reviewed and approved as to accuracy by the Town Engineer.
ii. A minimum of 60 percent of the Open Space Parcel shall be known as the Open Space
Preserved Area and shall be preserved under a Conservation Restriction in accordance
with Section 4.b.
iii. A maximum of 40 percent of the Open Space Parcel shall be known as the Open Space
Buildable Parcel and may be utilized for residential development.
iv. The Applicant shall submit a proposed site plan that may request a unit density bonus of
up to 20 percent of the number of buildable lots determined under the Preliminary Plan.
During a pre-application meeting, the Planning Board shall determine if the proposed
density bonus is acceptable based on the quality of the Open Space Preserved Area.
Factors that the Planning Board shall consider to determine the density bonus include the
quality of the land preserved and locations of wetlands, vernal pools and slopes over 15
percent and any possible need for septic systems.
3. Open Space Cluster Development Requirements
Areas allowed for residential development on the Open Space Buildable Parcel shall be required to
meet the following conditions:
a. Dimensional Regulations
The OSCD shall comply with Section IV.T.3.a Table of Dimensional Regulations. However,
the Planning Board may waive the requirements for Section IV.T.3.a Table of Dimensional
Regulations by a four-fifth vote where such waivers will allow for a better design and/or
improved protection of natural and scenic resources.
Table of Dimensional Regulations
Open Space Buildable ParcelR-3 & R-4
Lot Frontage for the Buildable Parcel150 Feet
Vegetated Buffer Surrounding the Development Adjacent to the 100 Feet
Active Farm
Vegetated Buffer Surrounding the Development Adjacent to 75 Feet
other land uses
Front Building Setback30 Feet
Side Building Separation50 Feet
Rear Building Separation75 Feet
Maximum Number of Attached Units 3
Maximum Building Height3 stories/35’
b. Design Standards
The Building Parcel shall be consistent with the following Site Development and Building
Design Standards.
i.
Dwelling Units: The OSPD shall be comprised of attached dwelling units and/or single-
family dwelling units.
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ii.
Design: The Neighborhood Cluster Development design standards found in Section
IV.R.3.d.2., 4., 7., 9-12, 15-18 and the Affordable Housing requirements of Section IV.O.
of the Framingham Zoning By-law apply to this section.
iii.
Layout of buildings: To maintain the visual scale of the community, each dwelling unit
shall have its own exterior entrances.
iv.
Streets and Utilities: All streets, whether public or private, shall be designed and
constructed in accordance with the American Association of State Highway and
Transportation Officials (AASHTO) “Guidelines for Geometric Design of Very Low-
Volume Local Roads,” dated 2001 and “Complete Streets Policies” of the Massachusetts
Department of Transportation.
v.
Water and Sewer facilities and systems and other utilities, whether public or private, shall
be designed and constructed in accordance with the requirements set forth by the
Department of Public Works and Board of Health and/or Department of Environmental
Protection. At the request of an applicant the Planning Board, with approval of the
Department of Public Works, may waive the Design Standards under the Subdivision
Rules and Regulations provided the Board determines such exceptions are in the public
interest, and that the waiver furthers the purposes of this Section. Individual or
community septic systems may be allowed, subject to Board of Health and/or Department
of Environmental Protection approval, regulations, conditions and restrictions. Public
water and sewer infrastructure shall not be constructed or paid for by the Town.
vi.
Drainage: The Planning Board shall require the use of non-structural stormwater
management techniques and other drainage techniques that reduce impervious surface
and enable infiltration utilizing “Low Impact Development Techniques” for stormwater
management recommended by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental
Protection where feasible.
c. Common Open Space Area
iii.An area within the Open Space Buildable Parcel shall be designated as Common Open
Space Area for the use by the residents of the OSCD. At least 800 square feet per
bedroom shall be designated as Common Open Space Area. Common Open Space Area
may be used for active, passive or leisure activities.
iv.Common Open Space Area shall meet the following minimum standards:
a.The wetlands or slopes greater than 15 percent shall not comprise more than 25
percent of the Common Open Space Area, as identified in the Preliminary Plan,
Section IV.T.2.b.i. herein.
d. Open Space and Connectivity
i.A trail within the Open Space Preserved Area accessible to the general public shall be
established connecting the Open Space Parcel with abutting open space parcels, trail
networks, water resources, public amenities, public ways and/or neighborhoods.
ii.A minimum of two parking spaces shall be provided for public use, to be utilized while
using the trail. One of the two parking spaces shall be ADA compliant. “No Overnight
Parking” signage shall be installed.
iii.Public access details shall be determined during the public hearing process and written
into the Conservation Restriction (CR) documents and the homeowners and/or
condominium association documents.
4. Conservation Restriction
The Open Space Preserved Area shall be required to meet the following requirements:
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a.The Town of Framingham acting through its Conservation Commission, a land trust, or the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts shall hold the CR. TheCR of the Open Space Preserved Area
shall not remain under Open Space Preserved Area Owner. In no event may the land subject to
the CR be combined, included or joined with or considered as part of the Open Space Parcel nor
shall the owner of the Open Space Preserved Area hold the CR. In all cases, the terms of the CR,
including the nature and extent of public access and provisions for property maintenance, must be
reviewed and approved by the Planning Board and Town Counsel.
b.The entire Open Space Preserved Area shall be placed under a CR in perpetuity prior to the
issuance of the first building permit at the expense of the Applicant, held by the Town of
Framingham and a non-profit land trust.
c.The CR shall be drafted to include the provision that no active recreational facilities shall occur
on the Open Space Preserved Area. The holder of the CR may allow for passive recreation
opportunities on the Open Space Preserved Area through consent with the owner of the land.
d.All of the above restrictions must be written into the CR.
5. Application Review
a. Pre-Application Meeting
The applicant shall be required to attend a pre-application meeting with the Planning Board prior to
submitting a formal application for OSCD. Materials shall be submitted prior to the meeting with
the Planning Board and shall include preliminary plan and proposed Preliminary Plan as required in
Section IV.T.2.b.i and iv. The pre-application meeting, preliminary materials, and discussions
within the meeting shall not be binding upon the Planning Board or Applicant for the final approval
of the project.
b. Application Submittal
Application: The Applicant shall apply for a special permit and site plan review (Sec IV.I.) from the
Planning Board.
c. Approval
The review procedure shall be in conformance with M.G.L. c. 40A, §§ 9, 11 and Section V.E. of
the Framingham Zoning By-law and other permitting and approval processes as may be applicable.
The Planning Board may require the Applicant to fund project review consultants to assist in the
technical review of the proposal in accordance with the Planning Board’s Administrative Rules and
Regulation and M.G.L. c.44, § 53G.
d. Homeowners and/or Condominium Association Documentation
Homeowner and/or Condominium Association Documentation shall be submitted to the Planning
Board prior to the approval of an OSCD.
f. Variance Limitation
The Planning Board may issue a special permit under this Section, subject to the requirements of
this By-law, and in accordance with the additional requirements and standards specified within this
Section IV.T., only if no variance has been issued from the requirements of this Section IV.T.,
herein. A variance under Section IV.T. shall render a property ineligible for the filing of an OSCD
application and special permit under this section.
g. No Alterations
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No substantial alteration to a parcel of land, which shall include tree removal, utility installations,
ditching, grading or construction of roads, grading of land or lots, alteration of or near a wetland
or vernal pool or excavation except for purposes of soil testing shall be done within 12 months
prior to the filing of an OSCD application. The above activities shall render a property ineligible
for the filing of an OSCD application and special permit under this section. For the purposes of
soil testing and/or well testing the Applicant shall seek appropriate approvals through the
Conservation Commission and the Board of Heath.
A27A/
RTICLE DDITIONAL MOTIONSAMENDMENTS
May 20, 2014 Passed:
I move to amend Article 27, Section IV.T.2.b.iv. by adding the words “and wells” at
the end of the third sentence.
Stephen Shull, Precinct 2
_______________________________________________________________________________
May 20, 2014 Failed:
I move Article 27 be referred back to the Planning Board and brought back to the Fall
2014 TM with revisions.
Kathy Vassar, Precinct 1
_______________________________________________________________________________
May 20, 2014 Passed:
Motion to amend Article 27: Open Space Preservation Development By-law with
the proposed language changes to the sections below:
2.b.i.
The Applicant shall file with the Planning Board a Preliminary Plan conforming to the requirements of
Section V.C. of the Framingham Subdivision Rules, the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. c.
131 s. 40) and the Town of Framingham Wetlands Protection By-law (article V, section 18).A Professional
Land Surveyor or Engineer licensed in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts shall prepare the Preliminary
Plan to determine the number of buildable lots that would be created under conventional zoning. The
Preliminary Plan shall identify the quality of the land by identifying all wetlands, other resource areas, and
slopes over 15 percent. The number of lots shallaslo be consistent with Section IV.H Land Disturbance by-
law and shall be reviewed and approved as to accuracy by the Town Engineer. A copy of the preliminary
plan and all documents shall be filed with the Conservation Commission for review. The Conservation
Commission shall review the delineated wetlands, resource areas, and buffer zones and issue an Order of
Conditions under state and local regulations and make a recommendation to the Planning Board.
2.b.iv.
The Applicant shall submit a proposed siteplan that may request a unit density bonus of up to 20 percent of
the number of buildable lots determined under the Preliminary Plan. During a pre-application meeting, the
Planning Board shall determine if the proposed density bonus is acceptable based on the quality of the Open
Space Preserved Area. Factors that the Planning Board shall consider to determine the density bonus include
the quality of the land preserved and locations of wetlands, vernal pools,and all other resources and buffer
zones as reviewed by the Conservation Commissionand slopes over 15 percent and any possible need for
septic systems.
A28
RTICLE
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To hear a report of the Board of Selectmen relative to the laying out, the widening of, or the alteration to
Claudette Circle Extension from the limits of the 1968 acceptance of Claudette Circle to its end pursuant
to Chapter 82 of the General Laws; and to see if the Town will vote to accept said street or the widening
or alteration of said street as a public way, as laid out by the Board of Selectmen and as shown on a plan
or plans on file in the Office of the Town Clerk;
And, further, to authorize the Board of Selectmen to acquire by gift, purchase, eminent domain, or
otherwise, and to accept a deed or deeds to the Town of a fee simple interest or easements in any land
necessary for said laying out, and any associated drainage, utility or other easements for said streets, and
to authorize the Board of Selectmen and town officers to take all related actions necessary or appropriate
to carry out the purposes of this article;
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Board of Selectmen / Department of Public Works
May 20, 2014 Voted:
That a report of the Board of Selectmen be heard relative to the laying out, the
widening of, or the alteration to Claudette Circle Extension from the limits of the 1968 acceptance of
Claudette Circle to its end pursuant to Chapter 82 of the General Laws; and that the Town accept the
laying out of said street as a public way, as laid outby the Board of Selectmen and as shown on a plan or
plans on file in the office of the Town Clerk;
Further, that the Board of Selectmen be authorized to acquire by gift, purchase, eminent domain, or
otherwise, and to accept the deed or deeds to the Town of a fee simple interest or easements in any land
necessary for said laying out, and any associated drainage, utility or other easements for said streets, and
that the Board of Selectmen and other officers be authorized to take all related actions necessary or
appropriate to carry out the purposes of this article.
A29
RTICLE
To hear a report of the Board of Selectmen relative to the laying out, the widening of, or the alteration to
Currier Drive from the limits of the1978 acceptance of Currier Drive to its eastern end pursuant to
Chapter 82 of the General Laws; and to see if the Town will vote to accept said street or the widening or
alteration of said street as a public way, as laid out by the Board of Selectmen and as shown on a plan or
plans on file in the Office of the Town Clerk;
And, further, to authorize the Board of Selectmen to acquire by gift, purchase, eminent domain, or
otherwise, and to accept a deed or deeds to the Town of a fee simple interest or easements in any land
necessary for said laying out, and any associated drainage, utility or other easements for said streets, and
to authorize the Board of Selectmen and town officers to take all related actions necessary or appropriate
to carry out the purposes of this article;
Pass any vote ortake any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Board of Selectmen / Department of Public Works
May 20, 2014 Voted:
That a report of the Board of Selectmen be heard relative to the laying out, the
widening of, or the alteration to Currier Drive from the limits of the 1978 acceptance of Currier Drive to
its eastern end pursuant to Chapter 82 of the General Laws; and that the Town accept the laying out of
said street as a public way, as laid out by the Board of Selectmen and as shown on a plan or plans on file
in the office of the Town Clerk;
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Further, that the Board of Selectmen be authorized to acquire by gift, purchase, eminent domain, or
otherwise, and to accept the deed or deeds to the Town of a fee simple interest or easements in any land
necessary for said laying out, and any associated drainage, utility or other easements for said streets, and
that the Board of Selectmen and town officers be authorized to take all related actions necessary or
appropriate to carry out the purposes of this article.
A30
RTICLE
To hear a report of the Board of Selectmen relative to the laying out, the widening of, or the alteration to
Walkup Circle from Claudette Circle Extension to its end pursuant to Chapter 82 of the General Laws;
and to see if the Town will vote to accept said street or the widening or alteration of said street as a public
way, as laid out by the Board of Selectmen and as shown on a plan or plans on file in the Office of the
Town Clerk;
And, further, to authorize the Board of Selectmen to acquire by gift, purchase, eminent domain, or
otherwise, and to accept a deed or deeds to the Town of a fee simple interest or easements in any land
necessary for said laying out, and any associated drainage, utility or other easements for said streets, and
to authorize the Board of Selectmen and town officers to take all related actions necessary or appropriate
to carry out the purposes of this article;
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Board of Selectmen / Department of Public Works
May 20, 2014 Voted:
That a report of the Board of Selectmen be heard relative to the laying out, the
widening of, or the alteration to Walkup Circle from the Claudette Circle Extension to its end pursuant to
Chapter 82 or the General Laws; and that the Town accept the laying out of said street as a public way, as
laid out by the Board of Selectmen and as shown on a plan or plans on file in the office of the Town
Clerk.
Further, that the Board of Selectmen be authorized to acquire by gift, purchase, eminent domain, or
otherwise, and to accept the deed or deeds to Town of a fee simple interest or easments in any land
necessary for said laying out, and any associated drainage, utility or other easements for said street, and
that the Board of Selectmen and town officers be authorized to carry out the purposes of this article.
A31
RTICLE
To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Board of Selectmen to petition the General Court for a
special act providing that legislation be adopted in the form set forth below; provided, however, that the
General Court may make clerical or editorial changes of form only to the bill, unless the Board of
Selectmen approve amendments to the bill before enactment by the General Court; and provided further
that the Board of Selectmen be authorized to approve amendments which shall be within the scope of the
general public objectives of the petition:
SECTION 1.Notwithstanding the provisions of Chapters 82 and 79 of the General Laws or any other
general or special law to the contrary, the Town of Framingham may employ the procedure hereinafter set
out for municipal acceptance of roads constructed within a subdivision in accordance with a definitive
subdivision plan which has been approved under the Subdivision Control Law. The Board of Selectmen
shall hold a public hearing, after first giving written notice by first-class mail, postage prepaid, to the
owner of record of each property abutting the road or roads, as appears from municipal records, and
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giving notice by publication in anewspaper of local circulation at least seven days prior to the hearing.
The sole purpose of the public hearing shall be to determine whether it is in the public interest to accept
the road or roads as a public way. If the Framingham Board of Selectmen determines, after the public
hearing, that it is in the public interest to accept the road or roads, they shall so-vote, by a majority vote,
and place an article on the warrant for the next annual or special town meeting for acceptance of the road
or roads. Upon a two-thirds vote of Town Meeting to accept the road or roads, the Board of Selectmen
shall cause to be prepared for recording at the Middlesex County Registry of Deeds an Order of
Acceptance setting forth the vote of the Town Meeting. The Order of Acceptance shall contain a
description of or reference to a plan showing the boundaries and measurements of the road, which may be
an existing approved and recorded definitive subdivision plan. The Order of Acceptance shall be
recorded within thirty days following the Town Meeting vote and, upon recordation, shall operate to vest
ownership of a permanent roadway easement in the road or roads for all purposes for which public ways
are commonly used in the Town of Framingham, together with ownership of all utility, drainage access,
and other easements shown on the plan and specifically identified in the Order of Acceptance, as well as
all pipes, structures, and other improvements located therein, in the Town of Framingham with no
additional notice or other action required. No owner or interest holder of land abutting a road so-accepted
or subject to an easement shown on said plan shall have any claim for compensation against the Town on
account of said acceptance.
SECTION 2.This act shall take effect upon its passage.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Board of Selectmen / Department of Public Works
May 20, 2014 Voted:
That the Board of Selectmen be authorized to petition the General Court for a
special act to adopt legislation providing for municipal acceptance of roads constructed within a
subdivision in accordance with a definitive subdivision plan approved under the Subdivision Control Law
as printed in the warrant; and further, that the Board of Selectmen be authorized to approve amendments
which shall be within the scope of the general public objectives of the petition.
120voting in favor, 1 opposed.
A32
RTICLE
To hear a report of the Board of Selectmen relative to the laying out, the widening of, or the alteration of
Concord Road and School Street in the locations shown on a plan entitled “The Widening and Relocation
of a Portion of Concord Road from Station 12+82.94 to Station 16+58.45 and School Street from Station
300+00.00 to Station 301+74.40” pursuant to Chapter 82 of the General Laws; and to see if the Town will
vote to accept said street or the widening or alteration of said streets as a public way, as laid out by the
Board of Selectmen and as shown on a plan or plans on file in the Office of the Town Clerk;
And, further, to authorize the Board of Selectmen and Town officers to take all related actions necessary
or appropriate to carry out the purposes of this article;
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Board of Selectmen / Department of Public Works
May 20, 2014 Voted:
That a report of the Board of Selectmen be heard relative to the laying out, the
widening of, or the alteration of Concord Street and School Street in the locations shown on a plan
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entitled “The Widening and Relocation of a Portion of Concord Street from Station 12+82.94 to Station
16+58.45 and School Street from Station 300+00.00 to Station 301+74.40” pursuant to Chapter 82 of the
General Laws; and that the Town accept the laying out of said streets as a publicway, as laid out by the
Board of Selectmen and as shown on a plan or plans on file in the office of the Town Clerk;
And Further, that the Board of Selectmen and town officers be authorized to take all related actions
necessary or appropriate to carry out the purposes of this article.
A33
RTICLE
To hear a report of the Board of Selectmen relative to the laying out, the widening of, or the alteration of
Edmands Road in the locations shown on a plan entitled “Town of Framingham Alteration to Roadway
Layout of a Portion of Edmands Road” pursuant to Chapter 82 of the General Laws; and to see if the
Town will vote to accept said street or the widening or alteration of said street as a public way, as laid out
by the Board of Selectmen and as shown on a plan or plans on file in the Office of the Town Clerk;
And, further, to authorize the Board of Selectmen and town officers to take all related actions necessary
or appropriate to carry out the purposes of this article;
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Board of Selectmen / Department of Public Works
May 21, 2014 Voted:
That a report of the Board of Selectmen be heard relative to the laying out, the
widening of, or the alteration of Edmands Road in the locations shown on a plan entitled “Town of
Framingham Alteration to Roadway Layout of a Portion of Edmands Road” pursuant to Chapter 82 of the
General Laws; and that the Town accept the laying out of said street as a public way, as laid out by the
Board of Selectmen and a s shown on a plan or plans on file in the office of the Town Clerk;
And further, that the Board of Selectmen and town officers be authorized to take all related actions
necessary or appropriate to carry out the purposes of this article.
A34
RTICLE
To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Board of Selectmen to grant a drainage easement to
Danforth Green, LLC, upon such terms and conditions as the Board of Selectmen deems appropriate,
over, upon, across, and through the Town-owned property located off Riverpath Drive as shown in the
background materials;
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Town Manager / Department of Public Works
May 21, 2014 Voted:
That the Board of Selectmen be authorized to grant a drainage easement to
Danforth Green, LLC, upon such terms and conditions as the Board of Selectmen deems appropriate,
over, upon, across, and through the Town-owned property located off Riverpath Drive as shown in the
background materials.
A35
RTICLE
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To see if the Town will vote to amend the By-laws of the Town; Article II – Functions and Authority of
Permanent Officers, Boards and Committees of the Town
By adding the following;
Section 2 - Town Manager
2.7(g) Prepare and submit annually a warrant article for the Fall Town Meeting topresent an
assessment of the budgetary needs of the Town for the next fiscal year; and requesting the advise and
consent of the Town Meeting on the maximum increase in the current year’s tax levy which should be
used in preparing the next fiscal year’s budget presentation for the Annual Town Meeting.
Pass any vote or take any vote.
Sponsor: Citizens’ Petition ()
Theodore C. Anthony, Jr.
May 21, 2014 Voted:
That the Town amend the By-laws of the Town;
Article II –Functions and Authority of Permanent Officers, Boards and Committees of the Town of
Framingham
By adding the following;
Section 2 – Town Manager
2.7(g) Prepare and submit annually a warrant article for the Fall Town Meeting to present an assessment
of the budgetary needs of the town for the next fiscal year; and requesting the advice and consent of the
Town Meeting on the maximum increase in the current year’s tax levy which should be used in preparing
the next fiscal year’s budget presentation for the annual Town Meeting.
Approved by the Attorney General on September 3, 2014.
A35–AM/A
RTICLE DDITIONAL OTIONSMENDMENTS
May 21, 2014 Passed:
Amend Art. 35 to cross out words “and consent” and add after the words “annual
town meeting”, the words “such a budget shall be presented as an option for the annual town meeting.”
Martin Ned Price, Precinct 17
_______________________________________________________________________________
May 21, 2014 Failed:
I move Article 35 be referred back to the Sponsor.
Richard J. Weader, II, Precinct 4
_______________________________________________________________________________
A36
RTICLE
To see if the Town will vote to amend the By-laws of the Town;
Article III – Town Meetings
By adding the following at the end of paragraph 1.13.3;
The Chief Financial Officer shall also present an assessment of the budgetary needs of the Town for the
next fiscal year including the anticipated change in the current year’s tax levy recommended to be used in
preparing the next fiscal year’s budget
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Pass any vote or take any vote.
Sponsor: Citizens’ Petition ()
Theodore C. Anthony, Jr.
May 21, 2014 Voted:
That the Town amend the By-laws of the Town;
Article III – Town Meeting
By adding the following at the end of paragraph 1.13.3;
The Chief Financial Officer shall also present an assessment of the budgetary needs of the Town for the
next fiscal year including the anticipated change in the current year’s tax levy recommended to be used in
preparing the next fiscal year’s budget.
Approved by the Attorney General on June 24, 2014.
A36RA
RTICLE ESOLUTION
May 21, 2014 Failed:
Be it resolved, it is the will of Town Meeting that the CFO present annually at the
Fall Town Meeting an assessment of the budgetary needs of the Town for the next fiscal year including the
anticipated change in the current year’s tax levy recommended to be used in preparing the next fiscal year’s
budget; and Town Meeting further requests that the Town Manager prepare and submit a warrant article for
the Fall Town Meeting requesting the advice and consent of Town Meeting on the maximum increase to the
current year’s tax levy which should be used in preparing the next fiscal year’s budget.
Audrey Hall, Precinct 3
Standing Committee on Ways and Means Chair
A37
RTICLE
I move that the Town vote to amend Article I, Section 2.3 of the General Bylaws by adding the “Board of
Assessors” after "Cemetery Trustees”.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Board of Assessors
May 21, 2014 Voted:
That the Town amend Article I, Section 2.3 of the General Laws by adding the
“Board of Assessors” after “Cemetery Trustees”.
Approved by the Attorney General on June 24, 2014.
A38
RTICLE
I move that the Town vote to amend Article I, Section 2.3 of the General Bylaws by adding the “Veterans
Council” after "Cemetery Trustees”.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Veterans Council
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May 21, 2014 Voted:
That the Town amend Article I, Section 2.3 of the General Laws by adding the
“Veterans Council” after “Cemetery Trustees”.
Approved by the Attorney General on June 24, 2014.
A39
RTICLE
To see if the town will amend the Town bylaws Article III, Section 1.5 by replacing the paragraph setting
the requirements for publishing the Town warrant articles and motions.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Rules Committee
May 21, 2014 Voted:
That the Town amend the Town bylaws, Article III, Section 1.5 by replacing this
section with the following:
1.5The warrant for a Town Meeting and the motions underwarrant articles shall be made available
to residents of the town as described below.
1.5.1 The warrant for a Town Meeting shall be posted at the Town Hall, at the Town Libraries,
and on the Town website at least seven days before the date of the Annual Town Meeting
for the election of town officers and determination of ballot questions, and at least
fourteen days before the date of a Special Town Meeting.
1.5.2 A notice that a Town Meeting Warrant is available on the Town webstite, at the Town
Libraries, and at the Town Manager’s office shall be printed in one issue of a newspaper
of general circulation in the Town concurrent with the posting of the warrant as stated in
1.5.1 above plus one additional issue of the newspaper.
1.5.3 At least twenty-one days before the first adjourned session of the Annual Town Meeting
for the election of town officers and determination of ballot question, and at least
fourteen days before the date of a Special Town Meeting, the warrant, together with
motions and background material for all warrant articles shall be made available to all
Town Meeting Members. This material shall be mailed to each Town Meeting Member
unless another means of delivery is acceptable to a Town Meeting Member. In addition,
this material shall also be available on the town website.
Approved by the Attorney General on September 3, 2014.
A40
RTICLE
To see if the town will amend the Town bylaws Article III, Section 1.15 by adding a new paragraph
setting the required percentage of Town Meetings that a Town Meeting Member must attend to remain a
Town Meeting Member.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Rules Committee
May 21, 2014 Voted:
That the Town amend the Town bylaws, Article III, Section 1.15 by replacing this
section with the following:
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1.15 A record available for public inspection shall be kept by the Town Clerk of the attendance of
Town Meeting Members at each Town Meeting or adjourned Town Meeting thereafter.
1.15.1 No later than thirty (30) calendar days before nomination papers for Town Meeting
representatives are due, the Town Clerk shall post on the Town website the attendance
records of all Town Meeting Members for the previous year.
1.15.2 A Town Meeting Member who does not attend at least twenty-five (25) per cent of the
Town Meeting sessions for which the person is qualified during the period beginning
from the first day of the year, or beginning from the time the person is qualified, and
ending on the last day of the year shall be deemed to have abandoned that office as of the
last day of such period.
Approved by the Attorney General on September 3, 2014.
A40–AM/A
RTICLE DDITIONAL OTIONSMENDMENTS
May 21, 2014 Failed:
I move to refer back to Sponsor
Jeffrey M. Cox, Precinct 14
A41
RTICLE
To see if the Town will ask the Board of Selectmen to petition the legislature to amend Chapter 143 of the
Acts of 1949 SECTION 7 regarding the attendance at Town Meeting of division heads or chairs of boards
and committees.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Rules Committee
May 21, 2014 Voted:
That the Board of Selectmen petition the Legislature to amend Section 7 of
Chapter 143 of the Acts of 1949, an Act Establishing in the Town of Framingham Representative Town
Government by Limited Town Meeting, by replacing the current text with the following:
It shall be the duty of the Town Counsel to attend all session of Town Meeting and, further, the
chair of an elected or appointed board or committee of the Town, or their designee, shallattend
all sessions of Town Meeting at which an article relevant to their position may be discussed.
A42
RTICLE
To see if the Town will ask the Board of Selectmen to petition the legislature to amend Chapter 143 of the
Acts of 1949 SECTION 7 regarding the election of Town Meeting Members.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Rules Committee
May 21, 2014 Failed:
That the Board of Selectmen petition the Legislature to amend Section 2 of
Chapter 143 of the Acts of 1949, An Act Establishing in the Town of Framingham Representative Town
Government by Limited Town Meetings, by adding a new sentence after the following:
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The provisions of the general laws relating to precinct voting at elections, so far as the same are
not inconsistent with this act, shall apply to all elections and primaries in the town upon the
establishment of voting precincts as above provided.
The new sentence would be as follows:
At any election of Town Meeting Members a registered voter must receive at least two votes to
be elected.
A42-AM/A
RTICLE DDITIONAL OTIONSMENDMENTS
May 21, 2014 Failed:
I move that the main motion of article 42 be amended by replacing “two votes” with
“five votes” so that the final sentence reads “At any election of Town Meeting Members, a registered voter
must receive at least five votes to be elected.”
R. Karl Rookey, Precinct 14
A43
RTICLE
To see if the Town will vote to amend the Zoning Bylawby adding to Section IV, Special Regulations, G
3, Lot Area Regulations, 5 (b), Projections into Setbacks, subparagraph (b) a new class of exceptions
defined in subparagraph (2) below in italics so that the entire 5 (b) section shall be as follows:
5. Setback Regulations
(a.) Front and Side Setback Requirements where a minimum depth of setback is specified in
Section IV, G, 2, no building or structure shall be erected within the specified distance from the
applicable lot line, except as permitted hereunder.
(1.) Uncovered steps and ramps, and walls and fences no greater than six feet in height above the
natural grade, may be permitted in a setback.
(2.) A portico over a front or a side doorway, or both, including a pediment, triangular-shaped or
otherwise, supporting columns and decorative pilasters, over a landing or an entrance area,
open or enclosed; the entrance area not being more than fifty (50) square feet in area.
Excluded from this exception are porticos in excess of one story in height.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Zoning Board of Appeals
May 20, 2014 Voted:
That the Zoning By-law be amended by adding to Section IV, Special
Regulations, Section IV.G.5.(b), Projections into Setbacks, a new paragraph (2) below in italics so that
the entire Section 5(b) shall be as follows:
a.Projections into Setbacks
1.Uncovered steps and ramps, and walls and fences no greater than six feet
in height above the natural grade, may be permitted in a setback.
2.A portico over a front or a side doorway, or both, including a pediment,
triangular-shaped or otherwise, supporting columns and decorative
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pilasters, over a landing or an entrance area, open or enclosed; the
entrance area not being more than fifty square feet in area, may be
permitted in a setback. Excluded fromthis exception are porticos in
excess of one-story height.
122 Voting in favor, 2 opposed, 0 abstentions.
Approved by the Attorney General on June 24, 2014.
A44
RTICLE
To see if the Town will vote to amend the Framingham Zoning Bylaw by amending Section III.H. Flood
Plain Districts and associated maps in accordance with the Federal Emergency Management Agency
(FEMA) update.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Planning Board
May 20, 2014 Voted:
That the Town amend the Framingham Zoning By-Law by amending Section
III.H. Flood Plain Districts and associated maps in accordance with the Federal Emergency Management
Agency (FEMA) update as presented in the background information of the Town Meeting Warrant
submitted to Annual TownMeeting and attached.
120 voting in favor, 2 opposed, 0 abstentions.
Approved by the Attorney General on June 24, 2014.
A44-A
RTICLE TTACHMENT
H. FLOODPLAIN DISTRICTS
1. Establishment of Districts
The Floodplain District is herein established as an overlay district. The District includes all special
flood hazard areas within the Town of Framingham designated as Zone A and AE on the
Middlesex County Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) issued by the Federal Emergency
Management Agency (FEMA) for the administration of the National Flood Insurance Program.
The map panels of the Middlesex County FIRM that are wholly or partially within the Town of
Framingham are panel numbers 25017C0501F , 25017C0502F , 25017C0503F , 25017C0504F,
25017C0506F, 25017C0508F, 25017C0509F, 25017C0511F, 25017C0512F, 25017C0514F,
25017C0516F, 25017C0517F, 25017C0518F, and 25017C0519F, dated July 7, 2014. The exact
boundaries of the District may be defined by the 100-year base flood elevations shown on the
FIRM and further defined by the Middlesex County Flood Insurance Study (FIS) report dated July
7, 2014. The FIRM and FIS report are incorporated herein by reference and are on file with the
Town Clerk, Town Engineer, Building Department, Planning Department, and Conservation
Commission.
2. Applicability
a.
All proposed development in a Floodplain District shall require a permit from the Building
Commissioner.
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b.
In addition to a permit from the Building Commissioner, any construction, enlargement,
extension, or substantial improvement of a new or existing building for human habitation,
normally allowed by right or authorized by special permit in a land area underlying a Floodplain
District, shall require a special permit from the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA).
c.
In the regulatory floodway, any development or encroachment, including fill, which would
result in any increase in flood levels during the base flood shall be prohibited. In Zones A and AE,
along watercourses that have not had a regulatory floodway designated, the best available Federal,
State, local, or other floodway data shall be used to prohibit encroachments in floodways which
would result in any increase in flood levels within the community during the occurrence of the
base flood discharge.
d.
Base flood elevation data is required for subdivision proposals or other developments greater
than 50 lots or 5 acres, whichever is the lesser, within unnumbered A zones. All subdivision
proposals must be designed to assure that:
(1)
Such proposals minimize flood damage;
(2)
All public utilities and facilities are located and constructed to minimize or eliminate
flood damage; and
(3)
Adequate drainage is provided to reduce exposure to flood hazards.
3. Application Procedure
Prior to the filing of an application subject to this section, the applicant shall submit plans to the
Building Commissioner. The Commissioner shall advise the applicant as to the pertinent sections
of the Zoning By-Law and the State Building Code particularly Section 744 of such code which is
incorporated herein by reference. If a special permit is required, the applicant shall then submit
seven copies of the application to the ZBA, who shall forthwith transmit one copy each to the
Town Clerk, the Conservation Commission, the Board of Health, the Engineering Department,
the Planning Department, and the Planning Board. Such agencies shall, within 30 days of
receiving said copy, submit a report containing recommendations and the reasons therefor to the
ZBA, and may prescribe conditions deemed appropriate for the proposed use. The ZBA shall not
render a decision on any such application until said recommendations have been received and
considered, or until the 30-day period has expired, whichever is earlier. Failure of such agencies
to submit their respective recommendations shall be deemed concurrence thereto.
To assist the ZBA in rendering its decision on the application, said application shall indicate at
least the following:
a.
All information normally required in a building permit application.
b.
If approval for development must be obtained from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts or
the United States Government or any agency or subdivision thereof, such approval shall be
obtained, and a copy of the document setting forth such approval, and any conditions imposed
thereon, shall be filed with the ZBA as part of this application.
c.
The boundary of the special flood hazard area and the regulatory floodway shall be drawn on a
plan of the site which shall also include contour lines at a maximum of two foot intervals. Base
flood elevation on this site plan shall be certified by a registered professional engineer, architect,
or surveyor. In unnumbered A zones base flood elevation data from sources other than the FIRM
shall be obtained and reasonably utilized.
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d.
Location of existing and proposed sewer disposal facilities, leaching fields, and other utilities.
e.
For any building to be occupied as a residence, certification by a registered professional
engineer, architect, or surveyor that the proposed structure has been planned and designed to have
the lowest floor, including the basement, elevated above the level of the base flood.
f.
For any building not to be occupied as a residence, either certification as above that the lowest
floor will be elevatedabove the level of the base flood, or certification by a registered
professional engineer or architect that the building is planned and designed so that it will be
watertight and anchored to resist forces associated with the base flood.
g.
Other information as may reasonably be required by the ZBA to ensure compliance with the
provisions of this section.
4.Conditions for Approval
In rendering its decision, the ZBA shall evaluate the extent to which the application meets the
following conditions:
a.
All other necessary permits have been received from those governmental agencies from which
approval is required by Federal or State Law.
b.
New construction (including prefabricated buildings and mobile homes) and substantial
improvements will be anchored to prevent flotation and lateral movement, and will be constructed
with flood-resistant materials and methods.
c.
Proposed development, including utilities, drainage, and paved areas, is located and designed to
be consistent with the need to minimize flooddamage.
d.
The site plan includes all required information, including base flood elevation data.
e.
New water and sewer systems (including on-site systems) are located and designed to minimize
infiltration.
f.
New and substantially improved residential buildings have been planned and designed to have
the lowest floor (including basement) elevated to or above the base flood level.
g.
New and substantially improved non-residential buildings have been planned and designed to
have the lowest floor (including basement) elevated to or above the base flood level; or be
floodproofed to or above that level.
h.
Where floodproofing is used in lieu of elevation, the floodproofing methods used are adequate
to withstand the forces associated with the base flood.
i.
Proposed development will not encroach on the regulatory floodway.
5.Occupancy Permit
No building newly constructed or substantially improved within a Floodplain District shall be
occupied or used without an occupancy permit signed by the Building Commissioner which permit
shall not be issued until the development complies in all respects with the site plan approved by the
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ZBA and any conditions imposed by the ZBA on the granting of a special permit for development in a
Floodplain District. No occupancy permit shall be signed by the Building Commissioner until a Post
Construction Elevation Certificate/Flood proofing Certificate has been submitted certifying that the
building has been elevated above the level of the base flood or, for non-residential buildings, that the
building has been floodproofed at least to the base flood elevation. In cases where a variance has been
granted by the ZBA permitting construction below the base flood level and/or without adequate
floodproofing, an occupancy permit may begranted in accordance with the conditions imposed by the
ZBA on the granting of a variance.
6. Notification of Watercourse Alteration
In a riverine situation, the Town Engineer shall notify the following of any alteration or relocation of a
watercourse:
a.
Adjacent communities affected by the alteration of the watercourse;
b.
NFIP State Coordinator, Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation; and
c.
NFIP Program Specialist, Federal Emergency Management Agency, Region I.
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O21,2014STM
CTOBER PECIAL OWN EETING
A1
RTICLE
To see if the town will vote to hear reports from various Departments, Boards, Committees and
Commissions listed in this warrant article unless said reports have been made in writing and placed on the
table at Town Meeting for Town Meeting Members.
The requested reports are:
1. Report form the Chief Financial Officer on the following standard reports for the Fall Town Meeting:
a. A report on the long-term financial forecast of revenue and major expense increases,
b.Transfers made by the Finance Committee from the Reserve Fund during the previous fiscal year,
c. Transfers made during the previous fiscal year from the budget of one department to the budget
for another department by the Division Director responsible for both departments,
d.The final budget and actual expenses for each budget category for the 2014 fiscal year,
e. The count of Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) staff employed in each department as of the end of the
2014 fiscal year,
f.All revenue received during the 2014 fiscal year by each department, including the School
Department, from all grants or other funding sources not included in the operating budget,
g. The fund balance at the end of FY2014 on all revolving funds and other funds not part of a
department budget,
h.For each special account (not a department account) the amount accumulated in the special
account over many years but not yet expended (not including grant revenue). The report should
also include the number of town employees funded and whether these employees received town
benefits. The non-departments should include but are not limited to the following: Cultural
Council, Elderly Disabled Committee, Conservation, Media Services, Parking Meter, and Edgell
Cemetery,
i.Update on the OPEB account including the incremental impact of new collective bargaining
agreements and current liabilities.
2. Report from the Director of Public Works on the following special projects:
a.Birch Road Wells project,
b. Update on current construction projects.
3. Report from the Town Clerk on the status of Town bylaws passed under Articles 35-40 at the 2014
ATM.
4. Report from the Town Clerk regarding Town Meeting’s request to send to various elected officials
copies of the Resolution approved by the motion regarding divestment of investments in Fossil Fuel
Companies. (2014 ATM Article 26)
5. Report by the Town Manager on the follow up to the Matrix Consulting Group and Assessment
Review Committee reports regarding the Town’s assessing practices and report the status of the
recommendations and documentation requests. (2014 ATM Article 24)
6. Report from the Chief Financial Officer providing an assessment of the budgetary needs of the Town
for the next fiscal year and the anticipated change in the current year’s tax levy recommended to be
used in preparing the FY2016 fiscal year’s budget. (2014 ATM Article 36)
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7.Report from the Selectmen on the estimated total of real estate assessments for the current year and
estimated tax rate for the following year.
8. Any other reports recommended by the Board of Selectmen or requested by a committee.
And after all reports are given the Moderator shall allow a period of time for Town Meeting Members to
ask questions on the reports and hear replies; then this article shall be disposed.
Sponsor: Standing Committee on Rules
October 21, 2014 Voted:
That Town Meeting hear reports from various Departments, Boards,
Committees and Commissions listed in this warrant article with the addition of a report from the DPW
designated as item 2C, Update on Inventory System, unless said reports have been made in writing and
placed on the table at Town Meeting for Town Meeting Members.
Further, that after all reports are given, the Moderator shall allow a period of time for Town Meeting
Members to ask questions relating to the reports and hear replies; then this article is disposed.
A2
RTICLE
To see if the Town will vote to authorize payments of unpaid bills of prior years of the Town to be paid
from the Fiscal Year 2015 departmental budgets in which they were incurred.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Chief Financial Officer
October 21, 2014 Voted:
That Town Meeting authorize payment of the following unpaid bills of prior
years of the Town. These bills are to be paid from the FY2015 departmental budget in which they were
incurred.
Human Resources –The EAP Network $875.00
School Department – Grainger $126.32
A3
RTICLE
To see if the Town will vote to transfer the sum of $5,764 fromthe handicapped parking fines receipt for
appropriation fund, for expenditure by the Disability Commission on projects for the benefit of persons
with disabilities.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Chief FinancialOfficer/Disability Commission
October 21, 2014 Voted:
That the Town transfer the sum of $5,764.00 from the handicap parking fines
receipt reserved for appropriation fund, to be expended by the Disability Commission on projects for the
benefit of people with disabilities.
A4
RTICLE
To see if the Town will vote to approve collective bargaining agreements for Framingham Professional
Administrators Union SEIU Local 888 and Framingham Police Officers Union and additional unions if
they settle in advance of Town Meeting.
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Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Meeting
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Chief Financial Officer / Human Resources
October 21, 2014 Voted:
That the Town approve the Collective Bargaining Agreement that has been
settled with the Framingham Police Patrol Union effective FY2013-FY2015 and the corresponding Salary
Schedule as attached; and transfer $239,948 from the Miscellaneous/Unclassified Division Salary Reserve
and $210,052 from the Miscellaneous/Unclassified Division Group Health Insurance to the Police
Division.
Further, that the Town approve Collective Bargaining Agreement for the Local SEUI 888 Professional
Administrators Union effective FY2015-FY2017 and the corresponding Salary Schedule as attached; and
transfer $54,147 from the Miscellaneous/Unclassified Division Group Health Insurance as follows:
Parks Division $1,819
Finance Division $28,864
Inspectional Services Division $12,748
Community Economic Development Division $2,490
Technology Services Division$8,226
A4-A
RTICLE TTACHMENT
Police Officers Union 474
July 1, 2012 - June 30 ,2013
Effective July 1, 2012
FY13 COLA 1%
Grade Step 1 Step 2 Step 3 Step 4 Step 5 Step 6 Step 7
POLI 43,142 46,451 47,876 49,295 50,551 51,811 52,328
July 1, 2013 - June 30 ,2014
Effective July 1, 2013 FY14 COLA 1%
1% Increase for Step 7
Grade Step 1 Step 2 Step 3 Step 4 Step 5 Step 6 Step 7
POLI 43,574 46,915 48,355 49,789 51,057 52,329 53,380
July 1, 2014 - December 31 ,2014
Effective July 1, 2014 FY15 COLA 1%
Increase 6.5% for eliminating stipends (Prints & Photos, Hazardous Duty, Accreditation)
Exchange 1% Increase for FLMA Reduction
Add Step 8 at 2% increase from Step 7 for 25 years of service
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Add Step 9 at 2% increase from Step 8 for 26 years of service
Add Step 10 at 2% increase from Step 9 for 27 years of service
Grade Step 1 Step 2 Step 3 Step 4 Step 5 Step 6 Step 7 Step 8 Step 9 Step 10
POLI 47,339 50,969 52,533 54,091 55,468 56,851 57,992 59,152 60,335 61,541
January 1, 2015 - June 30 ,2015
Eecve January 1,
2015 FY15 COLA 1%
Grade Step 1 Step 2 Step 3 Step 4 Step 5 Step 6 Step 7 Step 8 Step 9 Step 10
POLI 47,812 51,478 53,058 54,632 56,023 57,419 58,572 59,743 60,938 62,157
Professional Administrators SEIU Local 888
July 1, 2014 - June 30 ,2015
Eecve July 1, 2014 FY15 $50 for all
Step 10 + Eecve COLA 2%
Step
Grade Step 1 Step 2 Step 3 Step 4 Step 5 Step 6 Step 7 Step 8 Step 9 10
PR 1 41,775 42,611 43,462 44,336 45,223 46,122 47,044 47,981 48,941 49,972
PR 2 45,948 46,873 47,809 48,769 49,743 50,740 51,750 52,785 53,844 54,967
PR 3 50,556 51,565 52,599 53,647 54,719 55,814 56,935 58,068 59,225 60,459
PR 4 55,580 56,688 57,822 58,979 60,162 61,369 62,600 63,857 65,137 66,493
PR 5 61,171 62,391 63,634 64,903 66,196 67,526 68,881 70,260 71,664 73,144
PR 6 69,718 71,109 72,526 73,979 75,457 76,972 78,512 80,088 81,689 83,378
July 1, 2015 - June 30 ,2016
Eecve July 1, 2015 FY16 COLA 1%
Step
Grade Step 1 Step 2 Step 3 Step 4 Step 5 Step 6 Step 7 Step 8 Step 9 10
PR 1 42,192 43,037 43,896 44,780 45,675 46,583 47,515 48,461 49,431 50,472
PR 2
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46,408 47,341 48,287 49,257 50,241 51,247 52,268 53,312 54,382 55,517
PR 3 51,062 52,081 53,125 54,183 55,266 56,372 57,504 58,649 59,818 61,064
PR 4 56,136 57,255 58,401 59,569 60,764 61,982 63,226 64,495 65,788 67,159
PR 5 61,783 63,014 64,270 65,552 66,858 68,201 69,569 70,963 72,381 73,875
PR 670,415 71,820 73,252 74,719 76,211 77,742 79,297 80,889 82,506 84,212
July 1, 2016 - June 30 ,2017
Effective July 1, 2016 FY17 COLA 1%
Step
Grade Step 1 Step 2 Step 3 Step 4 Step 5 Step 6 Step 7 Step 8 Step 9 10
PR 1 42,615 43,468 44,335 45,228 46,132 47,049 47,990 48,946 49,925 50,977
PR 2 46,872 47,815 48,770 49,749 50,743 51,760 52,790 53,845 54,926 56,072
PR 3 51,573 52,601 53,656 54,725 55,818 56,936 58,079 59,235 60,416 61,675
PR 4 56,697 57,828 58,985 60,165 61,371 62,602 63,859 65,140 66,446 67,830
PR 5 62,400 63,645 64,913 66,207 67,527 68,883 70,265 71,673 73,105 74,614
PR 6 71,119 72,539 73,984 75,466 76,974 78,519 80,090 81,698 83,331 85,054
A4-AM/A
RTICLE DDITIONAL OTIONSMENDMENTS
October 21, 2014 Failed:
I move that Article 4 be referred back to Sponsor.
Jim Pillsbury, Precinct 6
A5
RTICLE
To see if the Town will vote to approve the FY2015 COLA for Non-Union Municipal Employees and
adopt any necessary changes to the corresponding Salary Schedules.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Chief Financial Officer / Human Resources
October 21, 2014 Voted:
That the Town amendthe Personnel Bylaw of the Town by adopting the new
FY15 Salary Schedules, so called M scale and DH scale as provided in the background material.
Further, that the Town transfer $207,311 from the Miscellaneous/Unclassified Division Salary Reserve as
follows:
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Fire Division $10,363
Police Division $13,513
Public Works Division $42,830
Framingham Public Library $11,599
Planning Board $3,343
Town Clerk/Elections $4,217
General Government Division $25,906
Parks Division $5,648
Finance Division $33,066
Inspectional Services $19,578
Economic Development Division $10,265
Technology Services Division $15,945
Human Resources Division $11,038
A6
RTICLE
To see if the Town will vote to approve certain adjustments and transfers within the FY2015 General
Fund operating budget to balance the budget and implement year one of the three-year budget model.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Chief Financial Officer
October 21, 2014 Voted:
That the following FY2015 budget adjustments be made:
TransferToFrom
Group Health Insurance$178,932
Retirement$62,070
Technology Services Division$70,000
Parks Division$31,362
Inspectional Services Division$15,500
TOTAL$178,932$178,932
A7
RTICLE
To see if the Town will hear a report by the Town Manager presenting an assessment of the Town's
budgetary needs of the Town for Fiscal Year 2016; and whether the Town Meeting will vote to offer its
advice to the Town Manager on the amount of the maximum increase in the property tax levy which
should be used in preparing the Fiscal Year 2016 Budget for the Town at the 2015 Annual Town
Meeting; or act in relation thereto.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Town Manager
October 22, 2014 Voted:
That Town Meeting advise the Town Manager that the amount of the
maximum increase in the property tax levy to support the Fiscal Year 2016 Budget should not exceed one
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and one-quarter percent (1.25%) of the prior fiscal year’s property tax levy plus amounts certified by the
Department of Revenue representing increased levy attributable to new growth and development.
A7-AM/A
RTICLE DDITIONAL OTIONSMENDMENTS
October 22, 2014 Failed:
I move to amend Article 7 to require that the FY16 projected expenses be
reduced by $2.1 million and therefore bring about a 0 percent property tax increase for single family
homeowners.
Furthermore, that the Town Manager orchestrate such request and show at the Annual Town Meeting how
said expenses reduction will be accomplished while maintaining high quality town services.
Gerald Bloomfield, Precinct 1
A8
RTICLE
To see if the Town will vote to amend the Framingham Zoning By-law by:
(a) re-organizing, re-positioning, re-captioning and re-numbering portions of the Zoning By-law;
(b) creating a Table of Uses which reflects the current use provisions of the Zoning By-law;
(c) adding definitions to define various uses in the Table of Uses consistent with the provisions of
the current Zoning By-law;
(d) making revisions to Section I.D of the Zoning By-law (nonconformities) to bring it into
conformance with current law and re-organize it;
(e) eliminating redundant or unnecessary provisions such as multiple severability and enforcement
clauses;
(f) making housekeeping amendments such as eliminating numbers in parentheses that are already
spelled out; correcting spelling and typographical errors; eliminating or updating outdated
statutory or other references; and deleting wording that simply repeats provisions of state law;
(g) revising, re-organizing and clarifying the Administrative provisions; and
(h) making other amendments for clarification and consistency;
as set forth in the proposed amended Framingham Zoning By-law dated August 2014, which shows
portions of the Zoning By-law that have been changed or amended in “red-line” format, on file in the
offices of the Planning Board and Town Clerk and also posted on the Town of Framingham website;
excluding the “comments” which are not part of the proposed Zoning By-law amendments and are solely
for informational purposes.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Planning Board / Board of Selectmen
October 22, 2014 Voted:
That
the Framingham Zoning By-law be amended by:
(a) re-organizing, re-positioning, re-captioning and re-numbering portions of the Zoning By-law;
(b) creating a Table of Uses which reflects the current use provisions of the Zoning By-law;
(c) adding definitions to define various uses in the Table of Uses consistent with the provisions of the
current Zoning By-law;
(d) making revisions to Section I.D of the Zoning By-law (nonconformities) to bring it into conformance
with current law and re-organize it;
(e) eliminating redundant or unnecessary provisions such as multiple severability and enforcement
clauses;
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(f) making housekeeping amendments such as eliminating numbers in parentheses that are already spelled
out; correcting spelling and typographical errors; eliminating or updating outdatedstatutory or other
references; and deleting wording that simply repeats provisions of state law;
(g) revising, re-organizing and clarifying the Administrative provisions; and
(h) making other amendments for clarification and consistency;
as set forth in the proposed amended Framingham Zoning By-law dated October 21, 2014 located on the
back table of Town Meeting, which shows portions of the Zoning By-law that have been changed or
amended in “red-line” format, (new text is underlinedand deleted text isstriken through), on file in the
offices of the Planning Board and Town Clerk and also posted on the Town of Framingham website;
excluding and deleting the “comments” and yellow highlighting which are not part of the proposed
Zoning By-law amendments and are solely for informational purposes.
106 voting in favor, 1 opposed, 4 absentions
Approved by the Attorney General on January 26, 2015.
A8RA
RTICLE ESOLUTION
October 22, 2014Passed
:Whereas the Framingham Town Meeting has just approved Article 8 on the
Warrant for the October 2014 Special Town Meeting; and
Whereas Article 8 is titled “Amend Zoning By-law: Phase One –Recodification of the Framingham
Zoning By-law”; and
Whereas the Framingham Town Meeting contemplates and expects that there will be at least several
additional “phases” of amendments to the Framingham Zoning By-law to complete the process of
recodifying Framingham’s Zoning By-law; and
Whereas there are additional zoning by-law changes that currently are being contemplated to create new
opportunities for the Town;
Now, be it resolved that it is the request and will of this Town Meeting that the Framingham Board of
Selectmen and the Framingham Planning Board, who are the co-sponsors of Article 8, form an ad-hoc
committee and charge this ad-hoc committee with the task of creating and overseeing a specific work plan
for completing the process of re-codifying Framingham’s Zoning By-law;
That this work plan shall take into consideration the Phase 2 and Phase 3 issues that were raised during
the process of creating Phase 1 Document;
That this work plan shall take into consideration other zoning initiatives that recently have been raised to
create new opportunities for the Town, such as, but not limited to, Downtown Transit Oriented
Development, Transfer of Development Rights, and Framingham Center zoning changes;
That the ad-hoc committee shall seek public comment of this work plan once it has been created but
before it is presented to the Board of Selectmen and the Planning Board for approval;
That the approved work plan be presented as a report by the Board of Selectmen and the Planning Board
to the 2015 Annual Town Meeting;
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That the ad-hoc committee continue to oversee the implementation of the work plan while the process of
recodifying Framingham’s Zoning By-law continues;
That updating the work plan by the ad-hoc committee continue as needed, after getting further public
comment and then the approval of the Board of Selectmen and the Planning Board; and
That the updated workplan be presented as a report by the Board of Selectmen and the Planning Board to
each Annual Town Meeting after 2015 until the Board of Selectmen and the Planning Board report to the
Town Meeting that the process of Framingham’s Zoning By-law recodification is deemed to be
completed.
Stephen Shull, Precinct 2
Standing Committee on Planning and Zoning Chair
A9
RTICLE
To see if Town Meeting will vote to amend Section IV.G.3.e. of the Framingham Zoning By-law by
replacing the existing words "of the lot" and "twenty percent" with the words "of the entire lot prior to
subdivision of the land into individual parcels" and "fifteen percent" and also adding "Contours shall be at
2 foot intervals based on the most recent National Geodetic Vertical Datum (NVGD). Plans shall note the
collection source of the contour data. Final slope shall be reviewed and confirmed by the Town Engineer
and/or by the Town's professional consultant." as presented in the background information of the Town
Meeting Warrant submitted for Fall Special Town Meeting.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Planning Board
October 22, 2014 Voted:
That Section IV.G.3.e. of the Framingham Zoning Bylaw be amended by
deleting the words “are greater than” in the first paragraph and inserting in their place the word “satisfy”;
by deleting the words “of the lot” and “less than” in the third paragraph, and inserting in their places the
words “satisfy” and “greater than”, respectively; and by adding the following to the endof the section:
“For Lots lacking a horizontal distance of 100 feet, the Slope will be calculated as an elevation change
across a horizontal distance of 50 feet as measured perpendicular to the contour line. Contours shall be at
2 foot intervals based onthe most recent National Geodetic Vertical Datum (NGVD). Plans shall note the
collection source of the contour data. Final slope shall be reviewed and confirmed by the Town Engineer
and /or by the Town’s professional consultant.”; as presented in background material information located
on the back table of Fall Special Town Meeting.
104 voting in favor, 2 opposed, 1 absention.
Approved by the Attorney General on January 26, 2015.
A9-AM/A
RTICLE DDITIONAL OTIONSMENDMENTS
October 22, 2014 Passed:
Imove that the Town vote to also amend Section IV.G.3.e. (Moderate Slope
Requirement, by changing the percentage from 20% to 15% as show below:
The term “moderate slope” is defined and measured by the procedure as prescribed herein as all areas of the
entire lot prior to subdivision of the land into individual parcelsof lotwith slopes natural and unaltered less
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thangreater than or equal to twentyfifteenpercent (2015%) over a horizontal distance of 100 feet, as
measured perpendicular to the contour line as prescribed herein.
Kathy Vassar, Precinct 1
A10
RTICLE
To see if the Town will vote to amend the By-laws of the Town; Article VIII –Business and Commerce
Provisions
By adding the following:
Section 25 – Sale of Water Bottles
25.1 Sale of Drinking Water in Single-Serving PET Bottles
It shall be unlawful to sell polyethylene terephthalate (PET) single-serving bottles of 1 liter or less
that contain non-carbonated, unflavored drinking water in the Town of Framingham on or after
January 1, 2015.
25.2 Exemptions for Emergencies
A declaration of a water quality or water availability emergency by the Town’s Emergency
Management Director or other duly-authorized Town, Commonwealth, or United States official shall
be sufficient to temporarily restore thesale of water bottles banned by the Bylaw until five days after
such declaration has ended.
25.3 Means of Enforcement
The Town Manager or his/her designee shall be responsible for the enforcement of this bylaw. The
Town Manager or his/her designee is responsible for creating an inspection process and executing
such process.
25.4 Non-Criminal Disposition
Any establishment conducting sales in violation of this Bylaw shall be subject to a non-criminal
disposition fine as specified by the Regulations for the Enforcement of Town Bylaws under M.G.L.
Chapter 40, §21D and the Penalties for Bylaw Violations adopted under Article X of the Town’s
General Bylaws. Any such fines shall be paid to the Town of Framingham.
25.5 Fines
Any establishment that fails to comply with the provisions of this Section shall be punished with the
following fines:
First Offense: $50
Second Offense: $100
Third Offense: $200
Subsequent Offenses: $300
Sponsor: Citizens’ Petition ()
Andrew D’Amico
October 22, 2014 Failed:
I move that the Town vote to amend Article VIII –Business and Commerce
Provisions of the Bylaws of the Town; as attached.
A10-A
RTICLE TTACHMENT
ARTICLE 10: Amend General Bylaws: Article VIII – Addition of §25: Sale of Water Bottles
I move that the Town vote to amend Article VIII – Business and Commerce Provisions of the Bylaws of
the Town; as attached:
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To see if the Town will vote to amend the By-laws of the Town; Article VIII – Business and Commerce
Provisions
By adding the following:
Section 8 – Sale of Water Bottles
8.1 Sale of Drinking Water in Single-Serving PET Bottles
It shall be unlawful to sell polyethylene terephthalate (PET) single-serving bottles of 1 liter or less
that contain non-carbonated, unflavored drinking water in the Town of Framingham on or after
January 1, 2016.
8.2 Exemptions for Emergencies
A declaration of a water quality or water availability emergency by the Town’s Emergency
Management Director or other duly-authorized Town, Commonwealth, or United States official shall
be sufficient totemporarily restore the sale of water bottles banned by the Bylaw until five days after
such declaration has ended.
8.3 Means of Enforcement
The Town Manager or his/her designee shall be responsible for the enforcement of this bylaw. The
Town Manager or his/her designee is responsible for creating an inspection process and executing
such process.
8.4 Non-Criminal Disposition
Any establishment conducting sales in violation of this Bylaw shall be subject to a non-criminal
disposition fine as specified by the Regulations for the Enforcement of Town Bylaws under M.G.L.
Chapter 40, §21D and the Penalties for Bylaw Violations adopted under Article X of the Town’s
General Bylaws. Any such fines shall be paid to the Town of Framingham.
8.5 Fines
Any establishment that fails to comply with the provisions of this Section shall be punished with the
following fines:
First Offense: $50
Second Offense: $100
Third Offense: $200
Subsequent Offenses: $300
Sponsor: Citizens’ Petition ()
Andrew D’Amico
A11
RTICLE
To see if the Town will amend Article V Section 22 of the General Bylaws, called the Nuisance Bylaw, to
better define aspects of a property that may create a nuisance, to remove incorrect references to other
Town Bylaws, and to otherwise clarify wording, and grammar and formatting.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Government Study Committee
October 23, 2014Voted:
That the General Bylaw be amended by deleting the existing Article V,
Section 22. Nuisance Bylaw and adding a new section, Article V, Section 22 as presented in the
background materials made available to Town Meeting Members at Town Meeting and as attached.
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Approved by the Attorney General on January 26, 2015.
A11-A
RTICLE TTACHMENT
The Government Study Committee has been working with the Building Commissioner to update the
Nuisance Bylaw. Modifications include clarifying that the Building Commissioner has jurisdiction over
the condition of parking lots, which has been unclear and problematic in some areas of Town, deletion of
incorrect references to other Town Bylaws, clarification of wording, and grammar and formatting
changes.
CURRENT BYLAW
Article V Section 22. Nuisance Bylaw
22.1 Authority and Purpose
Pursuant to the general powers granted to cities and towns by Article 89 of the Amendments to
the Massachusetts Constitution, and the specific powers granted by M.G.L., Ch. 139, ss. 1-3A,
this bylaw is adopted for the prevention of future nuisances and the removal of existing
nuisances within the Town, which nuisances constitute a hazard of blight, or adversely affect
property values.
22.2 Definitions
22.2.1 Blight
Any condition that seriously impairs the value, condition, strength, durability, or appearance of
real property, including real property owned or occupied by an Interested Party as defined in
Section 22.2.5 below.
22.2.2 Building
A structure, whether portable or fixed, with exterior walls or firewalls and a roof, built, erected
or framed, of a combination of any materials, to form shelter for persons, animals, or property.
See “structure” below.
22.2.3 Dilapidated
A condition of decay or partial ruin by reason of neglect, misuse, or deterioration. The term
includes, but is not limited to:
Property having deteriorated or ineffective waterproofing of exterior walls, roofs, foundations
or floors, including broken or inadequately secured windows or doors;
Property having defective weather protection (such as paint, stain, siding or tarpaulin) for
exterior wall covering; deleterious weathering due to lack of such weather protection or other
protective covering.
Personal property that is broken, rusted, worn, partially or wholly dismantled or otherwise due
to deterioration is unsuitable for the purpose for which designed.
22.2.4 Hazard
A condition likely to expose persons to injury, or property to damage, loss or destruction.
22.2.5 Interested Parties
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In connection with the notification requirements of this bylaw Interested Parties are the
Building Commissioner; owner(s) and/or occupants of property which is the subject of a
hearing; owners and/or occupants of property directly opposite the subject property on any
public or private street or way, owners and/or occupants of property abutting the subject
property, and owners and/or occupants of property abutting, and that is within 300 feet of, the
property line of the subjected property. Other persons who own or occupy property and who
demonstrate to the satisfaction of the Building Commissioner that they are affected by the
condition of the property or building that is the subject of a hearing may be regarded as
Interested Parties by the Building Commissioner.
22.2.6 Nuisance
Any substantial interference with the common interest of the general public in the maintaining
decent, safe, and sanitary structures that are not dilapidated, and neighborhoods, when such
interference results from the hazardous or blighted condition of private property, land or
buildings. The fact that a particular structure or use may be permitted under the zoning bylaw
does not create an exemption from the application of this bylaw. The term includes but is not
limited to:
(a) burned structures not otherwise lawfully habitable or usable,
(b) dilapidated real or personal property,
(c) dangerous or unsafe structures or personal property,
(d) overgrown vegetation which may harbor rats and vermin, conceal pools of stagnant water
or other nuisances, or which is otherwise detrimental to neighboring properties or property
values,
(e) dead, decayed, diseased or hazardous trees, debris or trash,
(f) signs as described in Article VII, Section 1.19.2 of the Sign Bylaw,
(g) personal property that is exposed to the elements without protection against deterioration,
rust or dilapidation,
(h) vehicles, machinery or mechanical equipment or parts thereof that are located on soil, grass
or other porous surfaces that may result in the destruction of vegetation or contamination of
soil,
(i) in any Residence District, keeping of more than one commercial vehicle, or of a tractor that
exceeds a gross vehicle weight of three-quarters (3/4) of a ton for hauling a van or trailer as
defined by the Registry of Motor Vehicles.
(j) personal property that has been placed for the collection as rubbish or refuse in violation of
Article VI, Section 4.1 of the Town Bylaws other than as approved by the Director of Public
Works, or left in public view for more than seven days.
22.2.7 Occupant
A person who occupies real property with the consent of the owner as a lessee, tenant at will,
licensee or otherwise. The singular use of the term includes the plural when the context so
indicates.
22.2.8 Owner
Every person who alone or jointly or severally with others
(a) has legal title to any building, structure or property to this Bylaw
(b) has care, charge, or control of any such building structure or property in any capacity
including but not limited to agent, executor, executrix, administrator, administratrix, trustee or
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guardian of the estate of the holder of legal title
(c) is a lessee under a written letter agreement
(d) has a mortgage in possession
(e) is a agent, trustee or other person appointed by the courts.
22.2.9 Responsible Party
The owner or occupant (in the case of real property) of property that is the subject of
proceedings under this bylaw. The singular use of the term includes the plural when the context
so indicates.
22.2.10 Structure
A combination of materials, whether wholly or partially level with, above or below the surface
of the ground, whether permanent or temporary, assembled at a fixed location to give support,
shelter or enclosure such as a building, (see above), framework, retaining wall, stand, platform,
bin, fence (having a height at any point of six feet or greater above grade), parking area sign,
flagpole, or mast for an antenna or the like.
22.3 Administration
22.3.1 Enforcement
This Bylaw shall be enforced by the Building Commissioner.
If the Building Commissioner shall be informed or have reason to believe that any provision of
this Bylaw has been, is being, or is likely to be violated, he shall make or cause to be made an
investigation of the facts, including an investigation of the property where the violation may
exist. If he finds any violation, he shall give immediate notice in writing to the Owner and to the
Occupant of the premises and shall immediately cease. In making such inspection, the Building
Commissioner shall have such right of access to premises that may be lawfully exercised by him
under the laws and constitution of the Commonwealth or of the United States.
If, after such notice and order, such violation continued, or if any Owner of Occupant fails to
obey any lawful order of the Building Commissioner with respect to any violation of the
provisions of the Bylaw, the Building Commissioner may make complaint to the Superior Court
or any court of competent jurisdiction an any injunction or order restraining any further use of
the premises and the continuation of the violation and shall take such other action as is
necessary to enforce the provisions of this Bylaw.
In addition to the foregoing remedy, whoever violates any provision of this Bylaw or fails to
obey any lawful order issued by the Building Commissioner in enforcing this Bylaw shall be
liable to a fine of not more than three hundred dollars ($300) for each violation. Each violation
of this Bylaw shall constitute a separate offense. Each day that any such violation continues
shall constitute a separate offense.
The Building Commissioner may require disclosure to him/her of the identity of the person
bringing a complaint of nuisance. The Building Commissioner may require that such complaint
be made under oath or subject to the penalties of perjury. If the Building Commissioner
determines that a reported condition may warrant immediate action, constitute a substantial
violation of this Bylaw, or adversely affect protected interests of others than the complainant,
the Building Commissioner may commence action under this Bylaw without requiring the
disclosure of the identity of the complainant.
If the Building Commissioner determines that the condition is subject to the jurisdiction of the
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Board of Health or is a violation of the State Sanitary Code or any health regulation, in addition
to enforcing this Bylaw, he shall refer the matter to the Director of Public Health of the town
appropriate state or town officials for action.
During his investigation of the matter, the Building Commissioner may consult, but is not
required to do so, with any Interested Party in an attempt to obtain voluntary compliance with
this Bylaw without the need to issue a notice of violation.
22.3.2 Notice to Complainant
In any matter in which a complaint has been made by a person other than the Building Commissioner, the
Building Commissioner shall promptly notify the complainant in advance of all conferences or
proceedings concerning resolution of the nuisance complaint or of any enforcement action and the
complainant shall be allowed to be present and to be heard.
22.3.3 Removal of Nuisance by Selectmen
If the Responsible Party fails to remedy the nuisance upon
notice from the Building Commissioner to do so, the Board of Selectmen may cause the nuisance to be
removed as provided in M.G.L., Ch. 139.
22.3.4 Review by the Town Manager
Any Interested Party who has filed a written complaint of a nuisance with the Building Commissioner
upon which complaint the Building Commissioner has determined that the condition is not a nuisance, or
has taken other action that the Interested Party claims is inadequate shall have a right to a review of the
matter by the Town Manager. At the request of such an Interested Party, the Town Manager shall confer
with the Building Commissioner and shall recommend appropriate action to the Building Commissioner
and to the Board of Selectmen.
22.3.5 Reports by Building Commissioner
The Building Commissioner shall file with the Town Manager each month a report that shall include all
complaints of nuisance made to him during the prior month; all proceedings begun by him under this
Bylaw; all pending complaints and all investigations and enforcement actions taken by him or referred to
the Commissioner of Public Health. The report shall state the location of the premises, a summary of the
nature of the complaint, the name of the Responsible Party(ies), and the disposition or the status of the
matter.
PROPOSED BYLAW
Article V Section 22. Nuisance Bylaw
22.1 Authority and Purpose
Pursuant to the general powers granted to cities and towns by Article 89 of the Amendments to the
Massachusetts Constitution, and the specific powers granted by M.G.L., Ch. 139, ss. 1-3A, this bylaw is
adopted for the prevention of future nuisances and the removal of existing nuisances within the Town,
which nuisances constitute a hazard of blight, or adversely affect property values.
22.2 Definitions
22.2.1 Blight
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Any condition that seriously impairs the value, condition,strength, durability, or appearance of real
or isotherwise detrimental to property values or neighboring properties
property, including real
property owned or occupied by an Interested Party as defined in Section 22.2.5 below.
22.2.2 Building
A structure, whether portable or fixed, with exterior walls or firewalls and a roof, built, erected or framed,
of a combination of any materials, to form shelter for persons, animals, or property. See “structure”
below.
22.2.3 Dilapidated
due to
A condition of decay or partial ruin by reason ofneglect, misuse, or deterioration. The term
includes, but is not limited to:
(a)
Property having deteriorated or ineffective waterproofing of exterior walls, roofs, foundations, or
floors, including broken or inadequately secured windows or doors;
(b)
Property having defective weather protection (such as paint, stain, siding or tarpaulin) for exterior
wall covering; deleterious weathering due to lack of such weather protection or other protective covering.
(c)
Personal property that is broken, rusted, worn, partially or wholly dismantled or otherwise due to
deterioration is unsuitable for the purpose for which designed.
(d)Property having a paved parking lot or a parking area in a deteriorated condition causing
hazardous conditions to automobiles, bicycles, or pedestrians. Such conditions may include but are
not limited to potholes, broken pavement, and/or insufficient drainage so as to cause flooding.
22.2.4 Hazard
A condition likely to expose persons to injury, or property to damage, loss or destruction.
22.2.5 Interested Parties
In connection with the notification requirements of this bylaw Interested Parties are the Building
Commissioner; owner(s) and/or occupants of property which is the subject of a hearing; owners and/or
occupants of property directly opposite the subject property on any public or private street or way, owners
abutting
and/or occupants of property abutting the subject property, and owners and/or occupants of
property abutting, and that is within 300 feet of, the property line of the subjected property. Other persons
who own or occupy property and who demonstrate to the satisfaction of the Building Commissioner that
they are affected by the condition of the property or building that is the subject of a hearing may be
regarded as Interested Parties by the Building Commissioner.
22.2.6 Nuisance
Any substantial interference with the common interest of the general public in themaintaining decent,
and neighborhoods
safe and sanitary structures that are not dilapidated,and neighborhoods,when such
interference results from the hazardous or blighted condition of private property, land or buildings. The
fact that a particular structure or use may be permitted under the zoning bylaw does not create an
exemption from the application of this bylaw. The term includes but is not limited to:
(a) burned structures not otherwise lawfully habitable or usable,
including but not limited to real or personal property
(b) dilapidated real or personal property
containing graffiti, tagging or similar offensive markings,
including parking lots or parking areas,
(c) dilapidated real or personal property
(d) dangerous or unsafe structures or personal property,
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(e) overgrown vegetation and pools of stagnant water, including but not limited to all above or below
which
ground swimming pools may harbor rats and vermin, conceal pools of stagnant water or other
nuisances, or which is otherwise detrimental to neighboring properties or property values,
(f) dead, decayed, diseased or hazardous trees,debris or trash,
(g) signs as described in Article VII, Section 1.19.2 of the Sign Bylaw(Delete –this is no longer a
correct reference to the sign bylaw and the Building Commissioner enforces signs under the Sign
Bylaw not the Nuisance Bylaw.)
(g) personal property that is exposed to the elements without protection against deterioration,
rust or dilapidation,
(h) vehicles, machinery or mechanical equipment or parts thereof that are located on
are likely to result
soil, grass or other porous surfaces that mayin the destruction of vegetation or
contamination of soil,
(i) in any Residence District, keeping of more than one commercial vehicle, or of a tractor that exceeds a
gross vehicle weight of three-quarters (3/4) of a ton for hauling a van or trailer as defined by the Registry
of Motor Vehicles,
) trash , debris or
(jpersonal property, including but not limited to personal property marked “free” or
“take” that has been placed for the collection as rubbish or refuse in violation of Article VI, Section 4.1 of
Town of Framingham policies
the Town Bylawsother thanas approved by the Director of Public
Works, or left in public view for more than seven days.
22.2.7 Occupant
A person who occupies real property with the consent of the owner as a lessee, tenant at will, licensee or
otherwise. The singular use of the term includes the plural when the context so indicates.
22.2.8 Owner
Every person who alone or jointly or severally with others:
(a) has legal title to any building, structure or property to this Bylaw
(b) has care, charge, or control of any such building structure or property in any capacity including but not
limited to agent, executor, executrix, administrator, administratrix, trustee or guardian of the estate of the
holder of legal title
(c) is a lessee under a written letter agreement
e
(d) has a mortgagein possession
n
(e) is a agent, trustee or other person appointed by the courts.
22.2.9 Responsible Party
The owner or occupant (in the case of real property) of property that is the subject of proceedings under
this bylaw. The singular use of the term includes the plural when the context so indicates.
22.2.10 Structure
A combination of materials, whether wholly or partially level with, above or below the surface of the
ground, whether permanent or temporary, assembled at a fixed location to give support, shelter or
enclosure such as a building, (see above), framework, retaining wall, stand, platform, bin, fence (having a
height at any point of six feet or greater above grade), parking area sign, flagpole, or mast for an antenna
or the like.
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22.3.1Enforcement
This Bylaw shall be enforced by the Building Commissioner.
If the Building Commissioner shall be informed or have reason to believe that any provision of this
Bylaw has been, is being, or is likely to be violated, he shall make or cause to be made an investigation of
the facts, including an investigation of the property where the violation may exist. If he finds any
violation he shall give immediate notice in writing to either/orthe Owner and orto the Occupant of the
to immediately cease such violation..
premises In making such inspection, the Building Commissioner
shall have such right of access to premises that may be lawfully exercised by him under the laws and
constitution of the Commonwealth or of the United States.
If, after such notice and order, such violation continued, or if any Owner of Occupant fails to obey any
lawful order of the Building Commissioner with respect to any violation of the provisions of the Bylaw,
the Building Commissioner may make complaint to the Superior Court or any court of competent
for
jurisdiction an any injunction or order restraining any further use of the premises and the continuation
of the violation and shall take such other action as is necessary to enforce the provisions of this Bylaw.
In addition to the foregoing remedy, whoever violates any provision of this Bylaw or fails to obey any
lawful order issued by the Building Commissioner in enforcing this Bylaw shall be liable to a fine of not
more than three hundred dollars ($300) for each violation. Each violation of this Bylaw shall constitute a
separate offense. Each day that any such violation continues shall constitute a separate offense.
The Building Commissioner may require disclosure to him/her of the identity of the person bringing a
complaint of nuisance. The Building Commissioner may require that such complaint be made under oath
or subject to the penalties of perjury. If the Building Commissioner determines that a reported condition
may warrant immediate action, constitute a substantial violation of this Bylaw, or adversely affect
protected interests of others than the complainant, the Building Commissioner may commence action
under this Bylaw without requiring the disclosure of the identity of the complainant.
If the Building Commissioner determines that the condition is subject to the jurisdiction of the Board of
Health or is a violation of the State Sanitary Code or any health regulation, in addition to enforcing this
or other
Bylaw, he shall refer the matter to the Director of Public Health of the town appropriate state or
town officials for action.
During his investigation of the matter, the Building Commissioner may consult, but is not required to do
so, with any Interested Party in an attempt to obtain voluntary compliance with this Bylaw without the
need to issue a notice of violation.
22.3.2 Notice to Complainant
In any matter in which a complaint has been made by a person other than the Building Commissioner, the
if requested
Building Commissioner, ,shall promptly notify the complainant in advance of all
conferences or proceedings concerning resolution of the nuisance complaint or of any enforcement action
and the complainant shall be allowed to be present and to be heard.
22.3.3 Removal of Nuisance by Selectmen
If the Responsible Party fails to remedy the nuisance upon
notice from the Building Commissioner to do so, the Board of Selectmen may cause the nuisance to be
removed as provided in M.G.L., Ch. 139.
22.3.4 Review by the Town Manager
Any Interested Party who has filed a written complaint of a nuisance with the Building Commissioner
upon which complaint the Building Commissioner has determined that the condition is not a nuisance, or
has taken other action that the Interested Party claims is inadequate shall have a right to a review of the
matter by the Town Manager. At the request of such an Interested Party, the Town Manager shall confer
with the Building Commissioner and shall recommend appropriate action to the Building Commissioner
and to the Board of Selectmen.
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22.3.5 Reports by Building Commissioner
The Building Commissioner shall file with the Town Manager each month a report that shall include all
complaints of nuisance made to him during the prior month; all proceedings begun by him under this
Bylaw; all pendingcomplaints and all investigations and enforcement actions taken by him or referred to
the Commissioner of Public Health. The report shall state the location of the premises, a summary of the
nature of the complaint, the name of the Responsible Party(ies),and the disposition or the status of the
matter.
A11-AM/A
RTICLE DDITIONAL OTIONSMENDMENTS
October 23, 2014 Passed:
I move that Article 11 be amended as follows:
1.By changing the motion to read “I move that the Town vote to amend the General Bylaws Article V
Section 22 as presented in the background materials made available to Town Meeting Members at
Town Meeting and as attached”.
2.By removing the word “offensive” from the text added to Section 22.2.6(b)
3.By removing the parenthetical comment (Delete – this is no longer a correct reference to the sign
bylaw and the Building Commissioner enforces signs under the Sign Bylaw not the Nuisance
Bylaw.)” from the deleted section 22.2.6(g)
R. Karl Rookey, Precinct 14
A12
RTICLE
To see if the Town will amendArticle V to simplify police enforcement of motor scooter safety by
removing Section 23 of the Framingham General Bylaws, called “Motor Scooters Prohibited”, and
removing the related fees listed in Article X, thus leaving regulation of these vehicles to MGL Chapter 90
§1B-E.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Government Study Committee
October 23, 2014 Voted:
That Article V of the General Bylaws be changed by deleting Section 23,
called “Motor Scooters Prohibited”, in its entirety and deleting the related fees in Article X.
Approved by the Attorney General on January 26, 2015.
A12-AM/A
RTICLE DDITIONAL OTIONSMENDMENTS
October 23, 2014 Failed:
Refer back to Sponsor.
Kathleen McCarthy, Precinct 10
A13
RTICLE
To see if the Town will amend the Town Bylaws Article I Section 5.10 and 5.11 by combining these two
sections, creating subsections, making minor edits, and defining procedures for Executive Session
Minutes in Section 5.11.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
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Sponsor: Standing Committee on Rules
October 23, 2014 Voted:
That this article be referred back to Sponsor.
A13-A
RTICLE TTACHMENT
ARTICLE 13MOTION
I move that the Town amend the Town Bylaws Article I Section 5.10 and 5.11 by combining these
sections into Section 5.10, defining subsections of Section 5.10, with words shown below as strikeout
being deleted and words shown below in and added.
bold underlined
5.10Each board, committee, or commission shall provide for keeping of minutes of its meetings.
Committees that are required to provide minutes shall include Town Meeting Standing Committees.
Each board, committee, or commission
These committeesshall provide minutes to the Town Clerk
in a timely manner according to the Open Meeting Law (MGL, c. 30A, sec. 18-25) practices of
All members present and all members absent shall be listed in minutes.
posting meeting minutes.
A
5.10.1ll votes taken shall be reported in the minutes. For
The minutes shall be a public record and
boards elected by town wide election, the minutes shall include the name and vote of each
member voting.
5.10.2public meeting shall be prepared by the clerk or his or her designee of
The minutes of each
the respective board, commission or committee, and sent to the Town Clerk within 45 days of
the meeting. The minutes shall indicate whether they have of have not been approved by the
board, committee or commission when submitted to the Town Clerk. If a meeting is
cancelled, or if no quorum is present at a scheduled meeting, the Town Clerk shall be
notified.
5.10.3for a public meeting
The Town Clerk shall log the receipt of theminutes and send them to
the Framingham Public Library in hard copy form, where they shall be kept for a period of
(7)
(7)seven years. If minutes are provided to the Town Clerk in electronic form and they
have been prepared according to the standards defined by the Town webmaster, they shall be
posted on the town web site in addition to being sent to the library.
5.10.4Each committee, board or commission shall deliver to the Town Clerk the minutes of each
public meeting. The Town Clerk shall note the receipt of these minutes and deliver them to
the Framingham Public Library for storage and public view. If after 45 days from the date of
a posted meeting of a committee, board or commission, the Town Clerk has not received a
publi
copy of the minutes of a postedc meeting, then the Town Clerk shall notify the
chairperson of the committee, board or commission that the minutes have not been received.
And I further move that the following be added as Section 5.11:
5.11Each board, committee, or commission may adjourn a public meeting and go into an
executive session according to the Open Meeting Law (MGL, c. 30A, sec. 18-25) practices
and shall provide for keeping of minutes of executive sessions.
5.12
5.12.1Minutes of an executive session may be withheld from the public record until they are
released by a vote of the board, commission or committee.
5.12.2Each board, commission or committee shall maintain a log of their executive session
minutes indicating the date of the executive session meeting, the date the minutes of the
meeting have been approved, and whether the minutes are released as a public record.
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5.11.1Annually at the first meeting of a board, commission or committee held after the
election of officers, the chair shall request that the board, commission or committee vote
to release previous minutes of executive sessions as a public record or to retain minutes
of previous executive sessions as non-public records.
5.11.2Executive session minutes of a board, commission or committee, appropriately marked,
shall be stored at the office of the board, commission or committee, if available, or shall
be sent to the Town Clerk who shall store these minutes separate from minutes of public
sessions. Forexecutive session minutes that have not yet been released, the Town Clerk
may only release a copy to the chair of the board, commission or committee and shall do
so when requested.
5.11.3Executive session minutes that involve the Town Counsel shall be reviewedby the Town
Counsel before being released. Release of executive session minutes that involve
meetings with Town Counsel must be approved by the Board of Selectmen to waive the
attorney-client privilege for specific communications per Selectmen policy.
A13-AM/A
RTICLE DDITIONAL OTIONSMENDMENTS
October 23, 2014 Not voted on due to refer back:
I move that the Town amend the Town bylaws Article
1 Section 5.10 and 5.11 by combining these sections into Section 5.10 and defining a new section 5.11 as
shownin the warrant book for the 2014 Fall Special Town Meeting and attached.
Joel Winett, Precinct 7
Standing Committee on Rules Chair
____________________________________________________________________________
October 23, 2014 Not voted on due to refer back:
I move that only executive committee minutes where
there is a clear attorney client privilege involved be allowed to maintained as confidential. The Town
Counsel must certify in writing the existence of such attorney client privilege in each such case.
Richard P. Goodkin, Precinct 11
A14
RTICLE
To see if the Town will amend the Town Bylaws Article II, Section 9 by editing the text regarding the
role of the Moderator and amend the Town Bylaws Article III Section 1.8 regarding Warrant Background
Material.
Sponsor: Standing Committee on Rules
October 23, 2014 Voted:
That the bylaws of the Town be modified as described in the warrant book for
the 2014 Fall Special Town Meeting with additional changes in Section 9.2 to add the words “as it may
be revised” after the words Massachusetts Moderators Association, and the word, “Special Acts,” after
the words “Massachusetts General Laws” and as shown in the attached.
Approved by the Attorney General on January 26, 2015.
A14-A
RTICLE TTACHMENT
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Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Meeting
Article 14: Amend General Bylaws, Article II, §9 (Role of Moderator) and Article III Section 1.8
(Warrant Background Material)
I move that the bylaws of the Town be modified as described in the warrant book for the 2014 Fall Special
as it may be revised
Town Meeting with additional changes in Section 9.2 to add the words “” after the
Special Acts,
words Massachusetts Moderators Association, and the word, “” after the words “Massachusetts
General Laws” and as shown in the attached.
Section 9.Moderator
9.1 The Moderator shall preside over all sessions of Town Meeting.
the bookprinted by the
9.2 The Moderator shall be guided by Town Meeting Time
Massachusetts Moderators Associationrevised o
as it may-be-modifiedr by vote of Town
Meeting upon recommendations by the Standing Committee on Rules, insofar as such
proceduresSpecial Acts,
modificationsare consistent with Massachusetts General Laws,
and the bylaws of the Town.
Town Meetingstated
9.3 The Moderator shall appoint all committees of the Townunless
otherwise in the bylaws or
the Town Meeting otherwise directs.
9.4 TModerator
he may direct that only voters be admitted to the Town Meeting Room or
to a definite portion thereof.
And I further move that Article III Section 1.8.1 be amended by replacing theword ‘may’ with the word
shall
‘’ in the first sentence.
The revised sections would be as follows:
Article II Section 9 Moderator
9.1 The Moderator shall preside over all sessions of Town Meeting.
the bookprinted by the Massachusetts
9.2 The Moderator shall be guided by Town Meeting Time
Moderators Association revised
as it may-be-, or by vote of Town Meeting upon recommendations
procedures
by the Standing Committee on Rules, insofar as such are consistent with Massachusetts
Special Acts,
General Laws, and the bylaws of the Town.
Town Meetingunless stated otherwise in the
9.3 The Moderator shall appoint all committees
bylaws, or
the Town Meeting otherwise directs.
The Moderator
9.4may direct that only voters be admitted to the Town Meeting Roomor to a
definite portion thereof.
Article III Section 1.8.1
Any committee, board or officer of the Town of Framingham or any sponsor of a warrant article may
submit background material to the Board of Selectmen at the time and in the manner specified by the
Board of Selectmen for inclusion in the Warrant and Background Material.
Sponsor: Standing Committee on Rules
A15
RTICLE
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Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Meeting
To see if the Town will vote to appropriate and authorize the Treasurer with the approval of the
Selectmen to appropriate from the Town of Framingham Conservation Fund the sum of $675,000 for the
purpose of purchasing for conservation and passive recreation purposes, by eminent domain or negotiated
purchase or otherwise, a certain property together with buildings thereon, known asthe SNOW
PROPERTY consisting of 12.5 acres, more or less, as shown on a plan entitled "95 Wayside Inn Road -
Boundary Map Town of Framingham"; dated June 2014, that said land be conveyed to the Town of
Framingham under the provisions of Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 40, Section 8c, and as it may
hereafter be amended and other Massachusetts statutes relating to Conservation, to be managed and
controlled by the Conservation Commission of the Town, and the Conservation Commission be
authorized to file on behalf of the Town any and all applications deemed necessary for grants and /or
reimbursements from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts deemed necessary under Chapter 132A,
Section 11 and/or any others in any way connected with the scope of this Article, and the Town and the
Conservation Commission be authorized to enter into all agreements and execute any and all instruments
as may be necessary on behalf of the Town to affect said purchase.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Board of Selectmen
October 23, 2014Voted:
That the Town appropriate and authorize the Treasurer with the approval of
the Selectmen to appropriate from the Town of Framingham Open Space Stabilization Fund up to
$337,500 for the purpose of purchasing for conservation and passive recreation purposes, by eminent
domain or negotiated purchase or otherwise, a certain property together with buildings thereon, known as
the SNOW PROPERTY consisting of 12.5 acres, more or less, as shown on a plan entitled "95 Wayside
Inn Road - Boundary Map Town of Framingham"; dated June 2014, that said land be conveyed to the
Town of Framingham under the provisions of Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 40, Section 8c, and
as it may hereafter be amended and other Massachusettsstatutes relating to Conservation, to be managed
and controlled by the Conservation Commission of the Town, and the Conservation Commission be
authorized to file on behalf of the Town any and all applications deemed necessary for grants and /or
reimbursements from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts deemed necessary under Chapter 132A,
Section 11 and/or any others in any way connected with the scope of this Article, and the Town and the
Conservation Commission be authorized to enter into all agreements and execute any and all instruments
as may be necessary on behalf of the Town to affect said purchase, provided further, that the
authorizations included in this article be conditional upon the receipt of a Massachusetts LAND grant
from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for a minimum of fifty percent of the purchase price of
$337,500.
A15-AM/A
RTICLE DDITIONAL OTIONSMENDMENTS
October 23, 2014 Failed:
I move to refer this article back to Sponsor.
Harold Geller, Precinct 2
Standing Committee on Ways and Means Chair
_______________________________________________________________________________
October 23, 2014 Failed:
I move that Town Meeting vote the raise and appropriate, transfer from available
funds or otherwise provide $675,000 for the purpose of purchasing for conservation and passive recreation
purposes, by eminent domain or negotiated purchase or otherwise, a certain property together with buildings
thereon, known as the Snow Property consisting of 12.5 acres, more or less, as shown on a plan entitled “95
Wayside Inn Road – Boundry Map Town of Framingham” dated June 2014, that said land to be conveyed to
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Town of Framingham2014 Annual Town Meeting
the Town of Framingham under the provisions of Massachusetts General Laws, …[in the book] provided that
$337,500 be appropriated from the open space stabilization fund, provided further, that the authorizations
included in the article….[in the book]
Kathleen McCarthy, Precinct 10
A16
RTICLE
To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Board of Selectmen to negotiate, enter into and execute and
approve an agreement for payment in lieu of taxes agreement (PILOT Agreement) as authorized by MGL
Chapter 59, section 38H with MA Solar Highway LLC, with respect to annual payments in lieu of real
and personal property taxes for a term up to twenty years relative to solar electric generating facilities to
be installed and located on land owned by Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) and
located at Massachusetts Turnpike Exit 13 (North and South cloverleaf) and Framingham Service Plaza.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Town Manager
October 23, 2014 Voted:
That this article be referred back to sponsor with concurrence of the sponsor.
A17
RTICLE
To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds or borrow the sum of
$180,000.00 for the Mary Dennison Park Emergency Environmental Testing & Remediation Project.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
Sponsor: Chief Financial Officer
October 23, 2014 Voted:
That Town Meeting vote this motion as written in the warrant booklet.
90 voting in favor, 1 opposed, 0 abstentions.
A17-AM/A
RTICLE DDITIONAL OTIONSMENDMENTS
October 23, 2014 Failed:
I move to amend the original motion as published in the Fall Special Town
Meeting Warrant and shown below by editing and formatting existing portions of the motion as follows with
words shown below as strikeout being deleted and words shown below in bold and underlined added.
I move that Town Meeting vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds or borrow the
sum of $180,000.00 for the Mary Dennison Park Emergency Environmental Testing & Remediation
project, to be spent under the direction of the Town Manager or his designee for the purpose of the
design and construction of testing and remediation, including and related engineering, and personnel
but not for and legal services;
And, further, to authorize the Board of Selectmen to acquire by gift, purchase or eminent domain,
permanent easements and temporary construction easements or other interest in land for said
projects, and further to authorize the Board of Selectmen to take all actions necessary to carry out the
purposes of this article.
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And, further, the Treasurer be authorized, with the approval of the Board of Selectmen, to issue from
time to time bonds or notes in the amount of $180,000.00 pursuant to the provisions of the M.G.L.,
Chapter 44, Section 7 and 8 or any other enabling authority.
William LaBarge, Precinct 1
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